LEFT BIAS
These media sources are moderately to strongly biased toward liberal causes through story selection and/or political affiliation. They may utilize strong loaded words (wording that attempts to influence an audience by using appeal to emotion or stereotypes), publish misleading reports and omit reporting of information that may damage liberal causes. Some sources in this category may be untrustworthy. See all Left Bias sources.
- Overall, we rate Heimildin as left-biased due to its advocacy for progressive social issues and emphasis on equality and inclusivity. We also rate them factually high, supported by their use of credible sources and a clean fact-check record.
Detailed Report
Bias Rating: LEFT (-5.8)
Factual Reporting: HIGH (1.5)
Country: Iceland
MBFC’s Country Freedom Rating: EXCELLENT
Media Type: Website
Traffic/Popularity: Medium Traffic
MBFC Credibility Rating: HIGH CREDIBILITY
History
Heimildin is an Icelandic news outlet founded in 2023 through the merger of Stundin and Kjarninn. Heimildin focuses on investigative journalism and in-depth reporting, covering topics such as government accountability, social justice, environmental issues, and Icelandic politics.
Read our profile on Iceland’s media and government.
Funded by / Ownership
The outlet operates under a distributed ownership model, with nearly 40 shareholders, none holding more than an 8% stake. The company’s bylaws stipulate that no individual can exercise more than 10% of voting rights at the annual general meeting, regardless of their shareholding. Heimildin is funded through subscriptions, donations, and reader support.
Analysis / Bias
Heimildin combines neutral reporting with cultural critique and advocacy for progressive social issues. The article “Snörp orðaskipti í réttarsal: ‘Þú hefur ekki orðið'” (Sharp exchange in the courtroom ) provides a factual recounting of dramatic courtroom exchanges during a legal proceeding. The piece captures the tension between the defense attorney and the presiding judge.
Similarly, the article “Glamúrvæðing áfengis í íslensku raunveruleikasjónvarpi: ‘Freyðivínið Altaf við höndina'” (The sparkling wine always at hand) critiques the glamorization of alcohol consumption in Icelandic reality television, using research to provoke reflection on media influence and societal norms. This piece reflects Heimildin’s tendency to engage with cultural and societal issues from an opinion-driven perspective.
Furthermore, “Ár bakslagsins” (The Year of the Setback) emphasizes the struggles encountered by the LGBTQ+ community in light of increasing anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric. This article reinforces Heimildin’s progressive stance on human rights and advocacy for marginalized groups. The platform prioritizes inclusivity and social justice and avoids sensationalism while emphasizing equality and social awareness in its storytelling. Heimildin also demonstrates strong sourcing by including interviews and expert commentary. For example, “Síðasta tilraun Ingu Sæland” (Last attempt by Inga Sæland) includes direct interviews, and “Innantóm orð eða afneitun: Hvort er verra?” (Empty words or denial: Which is worse?) features analysis by the chairman of the Norwegian Land Protection Agency.
Failed Fact Checks
- None in the Last 5 years
Overall, we rate Heimildin as left-biased due to its advocacy for progressive social issues and emphasis on equality and inclusivity. We also rate them factually high, supported by their use of credible sources and a clean fact-check record. (M. Huitsing 11/20/2024)
Source: https://heimildin.is/
Last Updated on November 20, 2024 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