Brazil Court votes unanimously to uphold X ban. Users switch to Threads, Bluesky

Brazil's Supreme Court has unanimously upheld a ban on Elon Musk's social media platform, X, previously known as Twitter. The ban was initiated after Musk failed to appoint a legal representative in Brazil, which Justice Alexandre de Moraes deemed necessary for the platform to operate legally in the country. Chief Justice Luis Roberto Barroso emphasized that companies must comply with local laws. Following the ban, many Brazilian users have migrated to alternative platforms like Meta's Threads and Bluesky, which have reported significant increases in user activity. The Supreme Court's decision has sparked controversy, with critics labeling it as authoritarian and questioning the legality of imposing fines on users attempting to access X via VPNs. The Brazilian Bar Association has called for a review of these sanctions, arguing that due process must be observed. Political figures, including right-wing congressman Nikolas Ferreira, have expressed strong opposition to the ban, framing it as an attack on free speech. Former President Jair Bolsonaro also criticized the decision, claiming it undermines freedom of expression and the confidence of international businesses in Brazil. President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva supported the court's ruling, asserting that compliance with Brazilian law is essential for all companies operating in the country.

- Brazil's Supreme Court upheld a ban on Elon Musk's platform X for failing to appoint a legal representative.

- Users are migrating to Threads and Bluesky, leading to record activity on these platforms.

- Critics of the ban argue it is authoritarian and violates due process rights.

- Political figures have voiced strong opposition, framing the ban as an attack on free speech.

- The Brazilian Bar Association is seeking a review of fines imposed on users accessing X via VPNs.