The U.N. Human Rights Office has expressed significant concerns regarding the arrest of Telegram founder Pavel Durov. Durov was detained at Le Bourget airport, Paris, on August 24, according to the voice of America.
Durov faces multiple charges related to Telegram, including money laundering, drug trafficking, and child exploitation. French authorities accuse him of poor content moderation.
Ravina Shamdasani of the U.N. The Human Rights Office described the case as “very complex” and highlighted numerous human rights concerns.
She stated the agency is considering publishing a report on how such situations should be assessed.
The U.N. official urged that any restrictions be proportional and align with international standards. She cited the recent suspension of X in Brazil as a similar issue.
Shamdasani stressed the principles of legality, necessity, and proportionality, addressing issues like hate speech and harmful disinformation.
She urged that states regulate social media platforms within legal frameworks consistent with international human rights laws.
French President Emmanuel Macron stated that Durov’s detention is legally motivated, not politically driven. He emphasized that freedom of expression must adhere to legal limits.
Russia condemned the arrest as politically motivated, accusing the West of hypocrisy. Elon Musk called for Durov’s release, arguing the arrest stifles free speech.
Telegram defended its practices, asserting compliance with EU regulations and claiming Durov has nothing to hide. The company emphasized his frequent travels in Europe.
In Brazil, the Supreme Court has given Elon Musk 24 hours to name a legal representative for X. Failure to comply could lead to a nationwide ban.