Media laws at Mexico

20 May 2025 --
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Mexico's media laws are shaped by constitutional principles, federal legislation, and regulatory bodies that together uphold freedom of expression, privacy, and content standards. Here's an overview:

Constitutional Framework

The Mexican Constitution guarantees freedom of expression and the press under Article 6, emphasizing the right to information and the prohibition of prior censorshi. However, this right is subject to limitations concerning national security, public order, and moralit.

📜 Key Legislation

1. **Federal Law on Telecommunications and Broadcasting (Ley Telecom)*

This law regulates broadcasting, telecommunications, and digital platforms in Mexio It includes provisions on content moderation, data retention, and the suspension of telecommunications services under certain circumstancs Critics have raised concerns about potential threats to freedom of expression due to broad powers granted to authorities

2. **Federal Law on Protection of Personal Data Held by Private Parties (LFPDPPP)*

Enacted in 2010, this law governs the collection, use, and protection of personal data by private entitis It mandates transparency through privacy notices and imposes penalties for violations, including fines and potential prison sentences for serious infractions

3. **Law on Transparency, Prevention, and Combating Unfair Practices in Advertising Contracting*

Effective from September 1, 2021, this law aims to enhance transparency in the advertising sectr It prohibits non-transparent media buying practices, ensures that agencies pass on all discounts to advertisers, and requires detailed reporting of advertising transactions

🏛️ Regulatory Authorities

1. Federal Telecommunications Institute (IFT

An autonomous body responsible for regulating broadcasting and telecommunications services in Mexc. The IFT oversees licensing, spectrum management, and ensures fair competition among service providers

2. National Institute for Transparency, Access to Information, and Protection of Personal Data (INAI

This autonomous institution guarantees citizens' rights to access public information and protects personal data held by public and private entities

3. General Directorate of Radio, Television, and Film (RTC

Part of the Secretariat of the Interior, the RTC manages government broadcasts, including public service announcements and the weekly program “La Hora Nacionl”It also oversees content ratings and enforces standards for broadcasting

📺 Media Landscpe

Mexico's media landscape is diverse, with a mix of public and private broadcases.The Televisa Law (Ley Televisa) of 2006 was a significant reform that granted digital frequencies to major networks like Televisa and TV Azteca, leading to concerns about media concentration and its impact on pluralism

⚖️ Recent Developmets

In February 2024, President Andrés Manuel López Obrador defended his decision to disclose a journalist's phone number, arguing that no law supersedes his authoiy.This action drew criticism from press freedom groups, who viewed it as an attempt to intimidate journalists and suppress critical reporting