Launched in 1993, Canal 22 began as a metropolitan cultural channel serving Mexico City and its surrounding areas. Over the years, it has expanded its reach through 25 transmitters across various regions of the country and is accessible nationwide via cable and satellite platforms. Canal 22 maintains a cultural focus, broadcasting documentaries, films, cultural news, entertainment, and televised debates.
Media assets
Television: Canal 22
State Media Matrix Typology
Ownership and governance
Canal 22 is owned by the Ministry of Culture, and its general director is appointed by the President of the Republic. All other employees are hierarchically subordinate to the channel’s top management.
Source of funding and budget
In 2022, Canal 22 operated with a budget of MXN 135.5 million (approximately US$ 6.7 million). In 2023, the budget increased by 4.57% to MXN 141.7 million (around US$ 8.46 million). The channel generates additional income through sponsorships and commercial products; however, over 50% of its resources are derived from state funding.
In 2024, Canal 22 operated with a total budget of approximately MXN 203.7 million (around US$ 11.9 million). Of this amount, MXN 149.5 million was allocated as a federal subsidy, while the remaining MXN 54.2 million was expected to be generated through the channel’s own revenue streams, such as the sale of advertising space and audiovisual services.
Editorial independence
While Canal 22 is lauded for its high-quality and diverse content, concerns have been raised regarding its editorial independence. During President Enrique Peña Nieto’s administration, the station faced accusations of censorship.
Under former President Andrés Manuel López Obrador, independent journalists questioned certain programs that appeared to favor his government. For instance, shows featuring government-friendly cartoonists criticizing opponents and conducting amicable interviews with officials were introduced after López Obrador assumed office.
Additionally, pressures on Canal 22’s journalists, particularly those involved in investigative reporting, have reportedly increased in recent years. Consequently, in July 2024, the outlet was reclassified under the “State-Controlled” category per our taxonomy.
Legal framework and oversight
Canal 22 lacks a specific law or instrument that effectively prevents government intervention in its editorial coverage.
While it has internal rulebooks offering programming guidelines, these do not constitute a domestic statute establishing the channel’s editorial independence. Nevertheless, Canal 22 has implemented a Code of Ethics and appointed an Ombudsman to serve as mechanisms aimed ti ensure independent assessment and oversight of its editorial policy.
May 2025