Happy Monday! Today, a trial on social media use by public officials could set a precedent for future cases. Brazil’s far-right is looking to win the media narrative in the country’s favelas.
A marquee trial on fake news spreading and social media use
The Superior Electoral Court (TSE) is set to hold a trial tomorrow about the spread of uncorroborated suspicions regarding Brazil’s electoral system. The case revolves around state lawmaker Fernando Francischini of Paraná, who in 2018 used his social media channels to disparage electronic voting in the country.
- Local courts were against punishing the politician, claiming that social media cannot be considered a medium for mass communication. Electoral prosecutors appealed to higher courts.
Why it matters. The trial will set the basis for upcoming disputes on spreading false information and sowing distrust in the electoral system. The court will either establish limits to what candidates view as their freedom of speech, or say that anything is fair game.
- Moreover, they will decide whether social media platforms are comparable to traditional media such as TV and radio stations, magazines, and newspapers. If so, it would mean that the inappropriate use of Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram profiles could...