President Claudia Sheinbaum said new audience-rights guidelines for media outlets do not constitute censorship during a press conference on Thursday [1].

The move comes amid accusations that the government is attempting to restrict press freedom. The guidelines seek to balance the rights of the public with the operations of media companies, but critics argue they could be used to penalize dissenting voices.

Speaking from Mexico City, Sheinbaum defended the "Lineamientos Generales para la Protección de los Derechos de las Audiencias," and said the measures are intended to safeguard the public [2]. She responded to allegations of government overreach by saying that the rules are designed to ensure transparency, and respect for those consuming media content [3].

"No hay censura," Sheinbaum said [4].

She further clarified that the administration is not seeking to stifle expression or control the narrative of news organizations. The president emphasized that the framework is a tool for protection rather than a weapon for restriction—a distinction she maintained throughout the morning session [5].

"No hay ni habrá censura," Sheinbaum said [6].

The president noted that the process is still evolving. She said that the guidelines regarding audience rights are not intended to censor and remain open for public consultation until August 2026 [7].

This consultation period is intended to allow stakeholders, and media representatives to provide feedback before the guidelines are finalized. Sheinbaum said the government remains open to dialogue to ensure the rules align with freedom of expression [8].

“"No hay censura."”

This development reflects an ongoing tension between the Mexican government's desire to regulate media accountability and the press's fear of state-led censorship. By framing the guidelines as 'audience rights,' the administration is attempting to pivot the conversation from press freedom to consumer protection, though the actual impact will depend on how these rules are enforced after the August 2026 consultation period.