This is a text I just received from telegran Brazil. We are in a rapid process from democracy to dictatorship implemented by the federal government with the support of the supreme court.
Democracy is under attack in Brazil. The Chamber of Deputies is expected to vote soon on PL 2630/2020, which was recently amended to include more than 20 completely new articles that have never been widely debated. See how this bill will kill the modern internet if it passes with its current wording. If approved, companies like Telegram may have to stop providing services in Brazil.
Grants Censorship Powers to the Government
This bill allows the government to limit what can be said online by forcing apps to proactively remove facts or opinions it deems "unacceptable" [1] and suspend any internet service – without a court order. [two]
For example, the Minister of Justice recently requested sanctions against Telegram, claiming that the app “did not respond to a request” – even before the request was made. If PL 2630/2020 had been in force, the government could have immediately blocked the app as a “preventive measure” until Telegram proved that it did not violate any law.
Transfers Judicial Powers to Applications
This bill makes digital platforms responsible for deciding what content is “illegal” rather than the courts – and provides overly broad definitions of illegal content. [3]
To avoid fines, platforms will choose to remove any opinions related to controversial topics, especially topics that are not aligned with the views of any government currently in power, which directly puts democracy at risk.
Creates a Permanent Surveillance System
The bill requires platforms to monitor communications and inform law enforcement if a crime is suspected to have taken place or may take place in the future. [4]
This creates a permanent surveillance system, similar to that of countries with anti-democratic regimes.
It's unnecessary
Brazil already has laws to deal with the criminal activities that this bill is intended to cover (including attacks on democracy).
The new bill seeks to circumvent this legal framework, allowing a single administrative entity to regulate speech without prior independent judicial oversight. [5]
And more!
This just scratches the surface of why this new bill is dangerous. That's why Google, Meta and others have teamed up to show Brazil's National Congress why the bill needs to be rewritten – but it won't be possible without your help.
What Can You Do to Change It?
You can talk to your congressman here or on social media today. Brazilians deserve a free internet and a free future.
This is a text I just received from telegran Brazil. We are in a rapid process from democr