Brazil Supreme Court moves to hold social media platforms accountable for user content
Brasília: In a landmark ruling on Wednesday, Brazil's Supreme Court has decided that social media companies can be held legally responsible for certain types of user-generated content on their platforms. The judgment opens the door for platforms to face potential fines if they fail to remove specific posts.
The ruling was passed by a narrow majority, with six of the 11 judges voting in favour. However, the justices have not yet reached a consensus on the exact categories of content that would be deemed illegal under the new framework.
This judicial development follows heightened scrutiny of online platforms in Brazil, especially in the wake of the January 8, 2023, riot in Brasília. During the unrest, supporters of former President Jair Bolsonaro stormed key government buildings, prompting renewed debates over the role of social media in spreading misinformation and inciting violence.
While the decision sets a new precedent, it will only become binding once all 11 justices have cast their votes. As of now, four votes remain pending. Although judges are technically allowed to change their vote before the process concludes, such reversals are considered rare.
Justice Andre Mendonca is the only judge so far to vote against altering the current legislation. In his dissent, Mendonca emphasized the importance of protecting free speech, arguing that social media serves as a critical tool for holding "powerful public institutions to account, including governments, political elites, and digital platforms."
Under existing Brazilian law, social media platforms are only liable for third-party content if they fail to act on a court order mandating its removal. The current Supreme Court deliberations could significantly broaden that scope.
Observers note that the final ruling may set a precedent for digital regulation not just in Brazil, but across Latin America.
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Indian Defence forces committed to adapting to changing environment: CDS General Chauhan
Hyderabad (PTI): Asserting that war and warfare is at the cusp of a major revolution, Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan on Saturday said the Indian Defence forces are committed to adapting to changing environment and imbibing reforms to remain ready and relevant.
Addressing the Combined Graduation Parade (CGP) of 216 Course held at the Air Force Academy at Dundigal near here, General Chauhan said India's strength rests on robust institutions, democratic stability, and unwavering professionalism of our Armed Forces.
He said the intensity of operations may have ebbed, but Operation Sindoor continues.
"You (new officers) also join the Air Force at a moment when a new normal has firmly taken shape. An era defined by a high degree of operational preparedness, 24-7, 365 days. The intensity of operations may have ebbed, but Operation Sindhur continues," he said.
He further said the newly trained officers are entering the Indian Air Force during a phase of deep transformation of the Indian Armed Forces.
Integrated structures, joint operations, and national pursuit of Atmanirbhar Bharat in defence are shaping the future of India's military strength, he said.
"Your journey ahead will be accordingly guided by Jai, the first word of Jai Hind, that's victory. 'J' stands for jointness, fighting as one nation, one force. 'A' stands for Atmanirbhar Bharat, trusted platforms and systems made not just for India but for the world. And finally, 'I' for innovation, daring to think ahead and to be ahead of the curve," he explained.
General Chauhan further said battles in the older domains will always remain contested, often brutal. But in the new domains, they will be smart, swift, and shaped by intellect, innovation, and initiative. The force that masters new frontiers is more likely to prevail in future conflicts.
