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The regulation provides for fines for platforms that do not combat disinformation, but billions of dollars in criticism as an attack on freedom of expression!
The technology tycoon and owner of X (formerly Twitter), Elon Musk , returned to the controversial cause by reacting to a new proposal for regulating the Australian government . The law, which aims to combat online misinformation, imposes heavy assessments on platforms that do not take adequate measures to contain the spread of fake news. Among the punishments, a fine of up to 5% of global revenues of companies that do not comply with the requirements. Australia, with this, is a global movement that seeks to hold technology giants accountable for the dissemination of false and harmful content, according to the website cnnbrasil.
In view of this legislation, Musk He used his platform to react directly and controversially, in his characteristic style. When asked by a user about the proposed law, his response was simple and blunt: “Fascists” . The statement generated a wave of criticism, especially from Australian politicians, who considered the The billionaire's stance is inconsistent and exaggerated.
The new law and the clash with platforms
A new Australian disinformation law proposes that platforms such as X establish their own codes of conduct to combat the spread of false news . These codes need to be approved by a regulator. If companies fail to provide these guidelines, the government will have the power to impose its own rules. If these new rules are not followed, companies could be fined up to 5% of its global revenue .
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Michelle Rowland, Minister of Communications, stated that the government is committed to keeping digital platforms within the provisions of national legislation. According to her, the proposed law “ improves transparency and accountability of platforms to users and the Australian people”. The new legislation strengthens the responsibility of technology companies, especially in relation to the publication of misleading and potentially dangerous content.
Elon Musk and freedom of speech
Elon Musk is known for being a staunch defender of freedom of expression , and this is not the first time he has clashed with governments over this issue. Since he acquired control of the X , Musk has made changes to moderation policies, making the platform more permissive of different types of speech. However, this approach has sparked heated debate about the boundaries between freedom of expression and online responsibility.
Australian politicians, such as the Minister for Government Services, Bill Shorten , Musk was mocked, saying that he changes his opinions according to his business interests. "Elon Musk has had more positions on free speech than the Kama Sutra” , Shorten said, noting that the billionaire appears to support freedom of expression when it suits him, but criticizes it when that freedom affects his business.
A history of conflicts with the Australian government
This recent controversy with the Australia is not an isolated case. In April of this year, the X filed a dispute with the local government after being sued for failing to remove specific content related to a stabbing in Sydney . At the time, the Australian Prime Minister, Anthony albanese , went as far as calling Musk a "arrogant billionaire" to challenge a content removal order.
Despite blocking access to content for Australian users, the X it was decided to remove it globally, stating that a country's rules should not control the Internet . This episode reflects Musk's stance in defending an internet without borders and less subject to local regulations, something that often conflicts with the laws of different countries.
The future of platforms and global orientation
The case of Australia is just one example of how governments around the world are tightening their grip on technology platforms. Laws against disinformation are being seen by many countries as permission to protect citizens from potentially dangerous content, whether in political, health or public safety issues.
However, this attempt at regulation places companies as the X in a delicate position, trying to balance freedom of expression e responsibility . Elon Musk and other industry figures are at the center of this debate, often challenging laws and promoting discussions about the future of social media platforms.
With this new legislation, Australia joins other countries seeking to hold tech giants accountable for the spread of misinformation. This issue will undoubtedly continue to be a point of conflict between governments, platforms and users.
