Brazil's Supreme Court has imposed a ban on social media platform X, raising concerns about the impact on free speech and the broader implications for democracy. Ernesto Araújo, former Brazilian Foreign Minister, urges the Biden administration to condemn the ban, arguing that the U.S. has a responsibility to uphold democratic values in the hemisphere.
Brazil's Supreme Court has banned social media platform X, prompting concerns about the impact on free speech and the broader implications for democracy. The ban was imposed after the company failed to appoint a legal representative in the country, leading to the "immediate, complete and total suspension of X’s operations" in Brazil.
Biden Administration Silent as Brazil Silences X, Sparking Concerns for Free Speech
X, under outspoken owner Elon Musk, has refused to comply with the order to ban several accounts related to individuals involved in an alleged attempted coup last year. Musk has accused the judge, Alexandre de Moraes, an ally of Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, of attacking free speech and violating the Brazilian constitution.
The White House and the U.S. State Department have remained silent on the issue, despite requests for comment from Fox News Digital. Ernesto Araújo, former Brazilian Foreign Minister, has urged the Biden administration to condemn the ban, arguing that the U.S. has a responsibility to support those who protect freedom.
Biden Administration Silent as Brazil Silences X, Sparking Concerns for Free Speech
Araújo believes that the ban on X is part of a broader pattern of curtailing basic rights and weakening democracy in Brazil. He accuses the Supreme Court and a significant portion of the political class of perpetrating these actions, with no response from the Biden administration.
Musk has also expressed concerns about the ban, accusing the judge of targeting X for political reasons. He further alleges that the order violates the Brazilian constitution and represents an attack on free speech.
Biden Administration Silent as Brazil Silences X, Sparking Concerns for Free Speech
The Brazilian user base for X is smaller than Instagram and TikTok but has significant influence as a nexus for news agencies, political and thought leaders. The ban has sparked protests, with many users migrating to other platforms, particularly Bluesky and Threads.
Former officials and Bolsonaro allies fear that the ban on X could lead to further bans on other platforms and services if they are deemed a threat by the courts. Musk's ownership of Starlink, a satellite internet service, also raises concerns as it has been targeted by de Moraes.
Biden Administration Silent as Brazil Silences X, Sparking Concerns for Free Speech
Araújo worries about Brazil's international trajectory, noting increased ties with China, Russia, and Iran. He believes that Lula is allying Brazil with enemies of freedom and the United States.
The Biden administration's silence on the issue has drawn criticism, with some suggesting that the administration views Lula as a friend and the Right as the enemy in Brazil. The White House has not responded to requests for comment.
Biden Administration Silent as Brazil Silences X, Sparking Concerns for Free Speech
The ban on X and the broader concerns about free speech and democracy in Brazil have raised questions about the Biden administration's commitment to upholding democratic values in the hemisphere. Araújo urges the U.S. to reconsider its silence and actively support those who are fighting for freedom and the rule of law in Brazil.
