The radio and television channels of the National University operate terrestrially in the Valley of Mexico (the area around Ciudad de México). UNAM’s television broadcaster has nationwide outreach thanks mainly to various distribution deals with transmission network operators. TV UNAM began broadcasting as a station in 2005. Radio UNAM began broadcasting in 1937. The radio and television stations of UNAM air content such as cultural shows, newscasts, debates and concerts.


Media assets

Television: TV UNAM

Radio: Radio UNAM

State Media Matrix Typology: Independent State-Funded (ISF)


Ownership and governance

UNAM has its own organic law as well as autonomy guarantees provided by the Constitution. TV Radio UNAM is part of the National Autonomous University of Mexico, an institution of higher education that has independence from the government and, according to article 3 of the Mexican Constitution, has also to govern itself in a way that it ensures its autonomy. The director of TV Radio UNAM is appointed by the rector of the highest public school in Mexico.

Source of funding and budget

In 2020, TV Radio UNAM received from the state a budget of MXN 155.7m (US$ 7m), according to the latest data available from the government. The channel sells sponsorships and other products as a source of additional income although its resources come in majority from state subsidies. In 2020, Radio UNAM received from the state  a budget of MXN 82.9m (US$ 3.76m).

Editorial independence

Thanks to the governing structures at TV Radio UNAM that insulate the broadcasters from government’s pressures, the outlet enjoys a healthy level of pluralism, diversity and editorial independence. There are programs very favorable to the President López Obrador, but also very critical of the government.

For example, academic John Ackerman, one of the most notable promoters of the Mexican government in the media, husband of the Secretary of the Public Service, Irma Eréndira Sandoval, has a show on UNAM TV consisting of interviews with government officials and individuals close to the left political groups. This show has been running since the presidential administration changed after the 2018 elections. However, UNAM TV also features shows critical of the government. For example, another academic, Pedro Salazar, a legal analyst, has a show on UNAM TV known for its criticism of the government.

The organic law of UNAM guarantees the editorial independence of the TV Radio UNAM.

TV Radio UNAM It has its own Code of Ethics and an Ombudsman that monitors compliance with this code and handles complaints from viewers and listeners.

August 2023