X Platform Blocking in Brazil: A Struggle Between Freedom of Expression and the Law

In a move that sparked widespread controversy, a Brazilian Supreme Court judge ordered the blocking of the X platform (formerly known as Twitter) in the country. This decision came after a long confrontation between Brazilian authorities and the platform’s owner, American billionaire Elon Musk, over issues related to freedom of expression and misinformation.

The beginning of the "X" crisis in Brazil The crisis began when Judge Alexandre de Moraes, known for his activism in the fight against disinformation, gave X 24 hours to appoint a legal representative in Brazil. After the platform refused to comply, the judge decided to block it completely in the country, angering Musk, who called the judge “fake and unelected” and accused him of destroying freedom of expression for political reasons.

The blocking order went into effect early Saturday, making the platform inaccessible both via browser and its app. The judge ordered the National Telecommunications Agency (Anatel) to take all necessary measures to implement the blocking within 24 hours. He also asked tech giants Google and Apple, as well as internet service providers, to put in place technological barriers to prevent the use of the X app and access to its website. He threatened to impose fines on people who resort to technological tricks to circumvent the blocking, such as using virtual private networks (VPNs).

There are about 22 million X users in Brazil, making this decision a major impact on social media in the country.

Mixed reactions and Elon Musk responds The blocking decision has drawn mixed reactions. On the one hand, some have considered it necessary to limit the spread of misinformation and protect the country's legal system. On the other hand, some have seen it as a violation of freedom of expression and an escalation in the dispute between Musk and Judge De Moraes.

The decision comes about a month before municipal elections in Brazil, which will allow measuring the balance of power between the camp of leftist President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and the right, which defends Musk. Judge de Moraes noted that "X" tried to escape the Brazilian legal system and create a climate of complete impunity and chaos on social networks.

Elon Musk did not delay in responding to this decision, as he described the judge as a "dictator" and accused him of trying to restrict freedom of expression. Musk pointed out that freedom of expression is the foundation of democracy, and that this decision represents a threat to it in Brazil.

The blocking of the X platform in Brazil is a bold move that reflects the growing tensions between the Brazilian authorities and the platform’s owner, Elon Musk . While some see this decision as necessary to protect the legal system and limit misinformation, others consider it a violation of freedom of expression.

Ultimately, the fundamental question remains how to strike a balance between freedom of expression and protecting society from misinformation and disinformation.