RIGHT-CENTER BIAS
These media sources are slightly to moderately conservative in bias. They often publish factual information that utilizes loaded words (wording that attempts to influence an audience by appeals to emotion or stereotypes) to favor conservative causes. These sources are generally trustworthy for information but may require further investigation. See all Right-Center sources.
- Overall, we rate Observador right-center biased due to its conservative stance in opinion pieces and factually high due to its commitment to factual reporting, as evidenced by being a signatory of the International Fact-Checking Network.
Detailed Report
Bias Rating: RIGHT-CENTER (3.7)
Factual Reporting: HIGH (1.2)
Country: Portugal
MBFC’s Country Freedom Rating: EXCELLENT
Media Type: Website
Traffic/Popularity: High Traffic
MBFC Credibility Rating: HIGH CREDIBILITY
History
Observador is a Portuguese online newspaper founded in 2014. It was established by a group of journalists and investors aiming to provide a new model of journalism in Portugal, focusing on comprehensive coverage of current events. The newspaper is headquartered in Lisbon and covers a wide range of topics.
Read our profile on Portugal Media and Government.
Funded by / Ownership
Observador is owned by Observer On Time, SA. The main shareholder is Luís Amaral, who holds 55% through Amaral y Hijas Holding SL. Other notable shareholders include António Carrapatoso (7.69%) and Pedro de Almeida (5.47%). The ownership is diversified among several individuals and entities. Key figures include António Carrapatoso (President) and Rudolf Gruner (General Director). Observador is funded through subscriptions, advertising, and investor contributions.
Analysis / Bias
Observador publishes a mix of opinion pieces and news articles. The opinions often reflect conservative viewpoints, as seen in pieces by Helena Matos and Rui Pedro Antunes. However, factual news articles, like the one on the government agreement with judicial workers, are presented without overt bias, maintaining a balanced approach in reporting.
Columnists like Helena Matos and Helena Garrido regularly contribute opinion pieces that align with right-leaning viewpoints. Topics often include critiques of government policies, discussions on economic liberalism, and conservative social values. For instance, articles like “To Europe that Await Us” by Helena Garrido discuss the future of the European Union with a conservative lens, and “Sebastian’s Appetite” by Rui Pedro Antunes provides a right-leaning perspective on political ambitions and party dynamics in Portugal.
On the other hand, the news article “Official. The government closes agreement with judicial employees and ends strikes that have lasted since 2021” reports on the Portuguese government’s agreement with judicial workers to resolve ongoing disputes. The article is a straightforward news report without evident bias, providing direct quotes from government officials and union representatives. It cites multiple sources, including official statements, ensuring a balanced presentation of the facts. Overall, this article maintains an impartial tone, focusing on reporting the agreement’s details without displaying overt bias.
Observador also conducts fact-checking, such as in the article “Fact Check. British government warned of “unprecedented” deaths of young people vaccinated against Covid-19?” which investigates a false claim made by a Planeta Prisao. The article debunks the claim by citing official health statistics, statements from Public Health England, and sources like the BBC and the Office for National Statistics (ONS). The language is neutral and focused on correcting misinformation.
Overall, Observador maintains straightforward reporting while providing a platform for conservative voices in its opinion section.
Failed Fact Checks
- None in the Last 5 years. They are a signatory of the International Fact-Checking Network (IFCN)
Overall, we rate Observador right-center biased due to its conservative stance in opinion pieces and factually high due to its commitment to factual reporting, as evidenced by being a signatory of the International Fact-Checking Network. (M. Huitsing 06/05/2024) Updated (01/26/2026)
Source: https://observador.pt/
Last Updated on January 26, 2026 by Media Bias Fact Check
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Left vs. Right Bias: How we rate the bias of media sources