Social Media Platform X Shuts Down its Operations in Brazil.
Social Media platform X, previously known as Twitter, has announced it will cease its local operations in Brazil due to a contentious legal dispute regarding the platform’s rights and responsibilities. This decision was communicated by owner Elon Musk. Despite the closure, Brazilian users will still have access to the service.
The shutdown appears to be the result of a prolonged legal conflict between Musk and Brazilian Supreme Court Judge Alexandre de Moraes. Moraes has been actively working to combat the spread of harmful misinformation online, which has become a significant concern in Brazil.
In a statement from X’s Global Government Affairs department, it was noted that Moraes had allegedly threatened the company’s legal representative in Brazil with arrest if they did not comply with his censorship directives. This situation has escalated tensions between the platform and Brazilian authorities.
The company emphasized that closing its office was a necessary measure to ensure the safety of its employees. They stated that the responsibility for this action lies entirely with Judge Moraes, highlighting the contentious nature of the relationship between X and the Brazilian judicial system.
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Brazilian officials have expressed criticism of X’s position. Joao Brant, the Secretary of Digital Policies, took to the platform to label the company’s actions as “pathetic,” warning that this could lead to a potential escalation that might result in the blocking of the platform in Brazil.
Moraes has previously ordered the suspension of several Twitter accounts suspected of disseminating misinformation, particularly those associated with supporters of former far-right president Jair Bolsonaro. This action was part of a broader effort to protect the integrity of Brazil’s electoral process, especially following the controversies surrounding the 2022 presidential election.
As a leading figure in the fight against misinformation in Brazil, Moraes presides over the country’s Superior Electoral Tribunal. His commitment to addressing these issues has positioned him at the forefront of a significant legal and social battle concerning freedom of expression and the responsibilities of social media platforms.
