The Brazilian Supreme Federal Court (STF) has authorized the immediate return of the social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, after the company successfully met the country’s legal requirements. This move follows a five-week suspension of X’s operations in Brazil due to the platform’s repeated failure to comply with judicial decisions. The court has instructed the National Telecommunications Agency (Anatel) to take the necessary steps to restore access to X across the country.
Background of the Suspension: Judicial Non-Compliance
X’s suspension in Brazil, which began on 30 August, was a result of its refusal to comply with multiple court rulings. Justice Alexandre de Moraes, the presiding judge in the case, emphasized that the platform would only be allowed to resume operations if it fully adhered to Brazilian laws and respected the rulings of the judiciary. His decision reflected the Brazilian government’s insistence on the country’s sovereignty and legal authority, particularly in regulating foreign companies operating within its borders.
Legal Compliance by X: What Changed?
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The Supreme Court’s approval for X’s return comes after the platform demonstrated compliance with several court-imposed conditions. These include:
- Removal of Accounts Spreading Misinformation: X was required to remove accounts that had been flagged for disseminating false information, a key concern for the Brazilian judiciary.
- Appointment of a Legal Representative: The company appointed a legal representative in Brazil, a mandatory step for foreign companies operating in the country.
- Settlement of Outstanding Fines: X paid fines totaling R$28.6 million ($5.1 million), which had been imposed due to the platform’s initial failure to comply with Brazilian regulations.
These actions ultimately satisfied the legal conditions set by the Brazilian judiciary, allowing X to return to service in the country.
Challenges and Delays in Restoring X’s Operations
Although the Supreme Court has granted X the green light to resume operations, the platform will not return to service immediately. Anatel must first communicate with the country’s approximately 20,000 internet service providers to lift the block on X. This process may take some time, as each provider uses different systems to manage internet access. However, the restoration of X’s services is expected to happen shortly.
Response from X and Future Commitments
Following the court’s ruling, X’s Global Government Affairs team issued a statement reaffirming the company’s commitment to upholding freedom of speech, while also adhering to the laws of the countries in which it operates. The platform emphasized its readiness to respect Brazilian laws moving forward.
X’s ongoing issues in Brazil largely stemmed from its initial reluctance to comply with court orders, leading to the suspension of numerous accounts and the platform’s eventual ban. Elon Musk, the owner of X, had previously voiced objections to the Brazilian courts’ actions, particularly regarding the suppression of conservative voices. However, Musk has now complied with all directives, signaling an end to the long-standing dispute with Brazilian authorities.
Conclusion: A Step Forward for X in Brazil
The resolution of X’s legal troubles in Brazil comes after a series of complications, including an error in the payment of fines, which caused delays in the platform’s restoration. With the funds now correctly transferred and all conditions met, the platform is set to resume operations, giving Brazilians access to the social network once again.
This development marks a significant moment for both X and Brazil’s judiciary, highlighting the importance of legal compliance and the balance between upholding freedom of expression and respecting national regulations. As X returns to the Brazilian market, the company will be expected to maintain strict adherence to the country’s legal framework to avoid future disruptions.