Mexico's broadcast audience rights guidelines finalized after public input

Mexico's Telecommunications Regulatory Commission (CRT) has announced adjustments to its Guidelines for the Protection of Audience Rights, following a public consultation that saw participation from nearly 9,000 individuals. The revised guidelines aim to balance freedom of expression with regulatory oversight.

Key changes include modifications to Article 12, which previously required broadcasters to adopt measures to avoid disseminating decontextualized or false information. The updated text now mandates that broadcasters "preserve the plurality and veracity of information." This shift reflects a nuanced approach to content regulation.

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preserve the plurality and veracity of information

The complaint procedure has also been refined. Previously, the CRT could intervene at any point upon a complainant's request. Under the new rules, intervention will only occur if a complaint is not addressed, such as if it is not received, not processed, or lacks a response. This aims to streamline the process and ensure timely resolution.

Regarding sanctions, Article 54 of the guidelines outlines penalties for infractions. Initially, sanctions could range from 0.01% to 1% of a broadcaster's revenue. The modifications specify that infractions will now be based on not having an ethics code, lacking an audience ombudsman, or failing to provide listeners and viewers with defense mechanisms. These changes are set to be published in the Official Gazette and will take effect 30 days after publication.

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When the complaint is not attended, for example: it was not received, it is not processed, there is no response.