SIP Expresses Concern Over State Intervention in Ecuadorian Media Company

The Inter-American Press Association voiced worry about the state takeover of Granasa, which publishes two newspapers in Ecuador.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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The Inter-American Press Association (SIP) expressed concern on Thursday about the state intervention in Granasa, the publishing company that owns two newspapers in Ecuador. In recent times, Granasa has faced financial difficulties and the Ecuadorian government has stepped in to take control of the company.

Why it matters

The SIP's statement highlights the broader issue of press freedom and the independence of media outlets, especially in Latin America where governments have sometimes sought to exert control over private media companies.

The details

Granasa publishes the newspapers El Universo and Expreso, two of the largest daily newspapers in Ecuador. The company has faced financial troubles in recent years, leading the Ecuadorian government to intervene and take control of the publishing operations.

  • The SIP issued its statement on Thursday, February 20, 2026.

The players

Granasa

The publishing company that owns the Ecuadorian newspapers El Universo and Expreso.

Inter-American Press Association (SIP)

A non-profit organization that promotes press freedom and the development of journalism in the Americas.

Ecuadorian Government

The government of Ecuador, which has intervened and taken control of the Granasa publishing company.

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The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing tensions between governments and independent media outlets in parts of Latin America, where press freedom remains a concern despite democratic progress in recent decades.