TV+ fined $11,400 for transphobic remarks by Patricia Maldonado

Chilean television channel TV+ has been ordered to pay a significant fine of 160 UTM, equivalent to around $11,400, due to transphobic statements made by commentator Patricia Maldonado on the program "Tal Cual." The sanction was confirmed by the National Television Council (CNTV) following a complaint filed by the Movimiento de Integración y Liberación Homosexual (Movilh).

The CNTV's ruling stated that the "concessionaire effectively incurred a television offense, as the expressions uttered by Ms. Patricia Maldonado possess sufficient gravity to unjustifiably affect the fundamental rights of the person alluded to, thereby disregarding their inherent personal dignity." The council found that Maldonado's comments violated the dignity of deputies Emilia Schneider and Trinidad Cerda.

Rolando Jiménez, spokesperson for Movilh, lauded the CNTV's decision. He highlighted that the ruling recognized the harm caused by Maldonado's words and affirmed the importance of protecting the dignity of all individuals, particularly those from marginalized communities. The organization views this as a crucial step in combating hate speech on television and promoting a more inclusive media landscape in Chile.