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Brazil Raises Concerns Over Meta Hate Speech Policy Changes
Government Questions Compliance with Local Legislation
The Brazilian government has expressed “serious concern” regarding Meta Platforms‘ recent adjustments to its hate speech policy, claiming that these changes may not comply with the country’s legal framework. Meta, the parent company of Facebook, Instagram, and Threads, announced last week that it would ease restrictions on discussions surrounding sensitive topics such as immigration and gender identity while discontinuing its fact-checking program in the United States.
Meta’s Policy Changes Spark Legal Concerns
Brazil’s government has requested an explanation from Meta, specifically about its revised hate speech guidelines, which could potentially infringe on laws protecting fundamental rights in Brazil. Local legislation prohibits various forms of hate speech, including racial slurs and religious attacks, and the government has warned that the policy changes could undermine these protections.
Meta Defends Policy Shifts as Enhancing Freedom of Expression
Meta responded to Brazil’s concerns, emphasizing that the changes to the hate speech policy are designed to encourage greater freedom of expression. The company clarified that adjustments to the fact-checking program are limited to the United States and will not affect Brazil.
Brazil’s Legal Framework and Previous Tensions with Social Media
This development comes amid a broader context of legal scrutiny of social media platforms in Brazil. Last year, the country’s Supreme Court temporarily suspended operations of social media platform X (formerly Twitter) for not complying with local laws, particularly around moderating hate speech. X later complied with court orders, including blocking certain accounts, to resume its operations in Brazil.
Public Hearing Scheduled to Address Concerns
To further address the issue, Brazil plans to hold a public hearing with experts later this week. The Brazilian government’s office of the solicitor general has expressed its concern over the adequacy of Meta’s current terms of service in protecting citizens’ rights.