Is Illum Fake News or Legit? Bias, Accuracy, and Source Transparency
Illum Overview and Political Bias
Illum is a Maltese-language Sunday newspaper known for investigative journalism. Critics suggest it occasionally leans toward the political agenda of its parent company, MediaToday, which is often viewed as liberal-leaning. While it reports on local corruption, some observers argue its framing can be partisan regarding Maltese domestic politics.
| Standpoint | Assessment |
|---|---|
| Overall political leaning | Center Left |
| Estimated number of readers | 15,000 |
| Israel support | Neutral / Pro-Palestine leaning |
| Use of loaded / emotional language | Medium |
| Target Audience | Mass market / Partisan |
Illum History
Established in the mid-2000s, Illum was created by MediaToday to provide a Maltese-language alternative to its English publication, MaltaToday. It has focused significantly on Sunday investigative pieces, social issues, and political commentary within the unique landscape of Malta’s two-party system and local governance.
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Who owns Illum?
Illum is owned and operated by MediaToday Co. Ltd., a prominent Maltese media house. The company is co-owned by Savior Balzan and Roger de Giorgio. Funding is primarily derived from commercial advertising, print sales, and digital subscriptions, maintaining its independence from direct state or party ownership.