13/11/2025
Kindness is not just a feeling. On Wikipedia, it is a policy.
Editors are encouraged to "assume good faith". This simple guideline means believing that other editors are trying to improve the project, not harm it. Criticism should focus on actions rather than motives. When someone makes a mistake, you are invited to explain how to fix it instead of accusing them.
Assuming good faith does not mean ignoring vandalism or disruptive behavior; it means approaching disagreements with respect and patience. If you think someone is wrong, ask questions. This posture encourages collaboration and reduces conflict.
World Kindness Day is an opportunity to reflect on why this policy matters. Wikipedia is built by volunteers from different cultures, professions, and viewpoints. Misunderstandings are inevitable when thousands of people contribute to a single article.
Assuming good faith helps editors navigate cultural differences, language barriers, and mistakes without escalating into hostility. It creates a welcoming environment for newcomers and fosters long‑term relationships within the community.
Kindness is baked into the rules: you will see pages that remind users to be civil, to thank each other for edits, and to avoid personal attacks. Small acts of courtesy keep the community strong.
Read about the good faith policy ➡️ https://w.wiki/_2X