Is Media24 Left or Right? Political Bias, Facts, and Media Trust Score
Media24 Overview and Political Bias
Media24 is often characterized as mainstream and centrist. Critics highlight its historical role as a mouthpiece for Afrikaner nationalism under Naspers. Some observers argue its editorial stance favors liberal-democratic values, while others suggest its commercial interests and corporate structure may influence its reporting on economic and transformation issues.
| Standpoint | Assessment |
|---|---|
| Overall political leaning | Center |
| Estimated number of readers | 20,000,000 |
| Israel support | Mainstream / Varied |
| Use of loaded / emotional language | Low |
| Target Audience | Mass market |
Media24 History
Originating in 1915 as Nasionale Pers, the company was established to promote Afrikaner interests. It evolved through the 20th century, rebranding its media division as Media24 in 2000. It transitioned from a traditional print publisher to a digital-first media giant, dominating South Africa’s news, magazine, and book industries.
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Who owns Media24?
Media24 is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Naspers, a multi-national conglomerate listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange. Funding is primarily derived from digital advertising, print circulation, and subscriptions. Naspers' significant global tech investments, including Prosus, provide a robust financial backbone, though Media24 operates as a distinct commercial entity.