LEFT-CENTER BIAS
These media sources have a slight to moderate progressive/liberal bias. They often publish factual information that utilizes loaded words (wording that attempts to influence an audience by using appeal to emotion or stereotypes) to favor progressive/liberal causes. These sources are generally trustworthy for information, but may require further investigation. See all Left-Center sources.
- Overall, we rate the Addis Standard as Left-Center biased on moderately progressive editorial positions. We also rate them as Mostly Factual in reporting, rather than High, due to minimal sourcing of news stories.
Detailed Report
Bias Rating: LEFT-CENTER (-3.5)
Factual Reporting: MOSTLY FACTUAL (3.6)
Country: Ethiopia
MBFC’s Country Freedom Rating: LIMITED FREEDOM
Media Type: Website
Traffic/Popularity: Medium Traffic
MBFC Credibility Rating: MEDIUM CREDIBILITY
History
Addis Standard is an independent Ethiopian online news outlet launched in 2011 by JAKENN Publishing. Based in Addis Ababa, it aims to provide in-depth reporting on Ethiopian current affairs, politics, human rights, and regional developments. According to the About page, it positions itself as a source of independent journalism focused on promoting accountability, the rule of law, and freedom of expression. It publishes a mix of breaking news, investigative reporting, and opinion analysis.
Read our profile on the Ethiopian Government and Media.
Funded by / Ownership
Addis Standard is privately owned and operated by JAKENN Publishing PLC. It is funded through reader donations (processed via Stripe), subscriptions, and limited advertising. While its donation mechanism is transparent, the outlet does not provide details about specific donors or the editorial board structure, which moderately limits transparency.
Analysis / Bias
Addis Standard publishes both straight news and opinion content. News stories, such as “Over five killed in bus attack in Gambella”, are reported with a neutral tone, but often lack citations or direct hyperlinks to verify claims. Sourcing is generally minimal, relying on eyewitness reports or unnamed residents.
Opinion content leans progressive, particularly in areas of human rights and social equity:
- The article “Shattered Peace, Silenced Justice” strongly criticizes the Ethiopian government’s failure to ensure justice and accountability, advocating for international human rights standards.
- “Gender Equality on Trial” highlights systemic discrimination in Ethiopian legal institutions and advocates gender inclusion and reform. The language and framing reflect Left-Center values on institutional critique and equality.
While it offers vital coverage on regional conflict, governance, and equity issues, its journalism would be strengthened by improved sourcing and greater editorial transparency. Nonetheless, it provides a rare independent voice in Ethiopia’s tightly controlled media landscape.
Failed Fact Check
- None in the Last 5 years
Overall, we rate the Addis Standard as Left-Center biased on moderately progressive editorial positions. We also rate them as Mostly Factual in reporting, rather than High due to minimal sourcing of news stories. (D. Van Zandt 05/26/2025)
Source: https://addisstandard.com/
Last Updated on May 26, 2025 by Media Bias Fact Check
Do you appreciate our work? Please consider one of the following ways to sustain us.
or
Left vs. Right Bias: How we rate the bias of media sources