What Is El Universo's Bias? Political Leaning, Credibility, and Trust Score
El Universo Overview and Political Bias
El Universo is often characterized as a center-right outlet that historically opposed the Rafael Correa administration. Critics suggest it aligns with Ecuadorian business elites, while supporters view it as a defender of press freedom. It is sometimes accused of editorial bias against left-wing populist movements in South America.
| Standpoint | Assessment |
|---|---|
| Overall political leaning | Center Right |
| Estimated number of readers | 5,000,000 |
| Israel support | Neutral / Mainstream Western alignment |
| Use of loaded / emotional language | Medium |
| Target Audience | Mass market / Professional |
El Universo History
Founded in 1921 by Ismael Pérez Pazmiño in Guayaquil, El Universo became a leading national daily. It gained international attention during a major 2011 legal battle with President Rafael Correa over a critical column, resulting in significant fines and prison sentences for executives, later pardoned amid global outcry.
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Who owns El Universo?
The publication is owned and operated by the Pérez family through the company El Universo C.A. Funding is primarily derived from commercial advertising, print subscriptions, and digital memberships. It remains one of the most prominent privately-held media companies in Ecuador, maintaining long-standing editorial independence from state control.