- The Open Network Society (TON) demands the release of Telegram’s chief, Pavel Durov, citing violations of freedom of expression and privacy.
- The group argues that Durov’s detention could set a troubling precedent for digital freedom and social media platform leaders.
The Open Network Society, a TON community group completely independent of Telegram, has penned an open letter to French authorities demanding the immediate release of Telegram’s chief and co-founder, Pavel Durov.
The letter refers to the arrest as a violation of basic human rights and even more so as an encroachment on one of the most important ones: freedom of expression, which they claim is being directly threatened by Durov’s detention.
In their letter, the TON Society describes Durov’s arrest as a blatant attack on free speech and privacy rights, emphasizing that such actions undermine the global digital community’s principles. The group urges France to respect the rights of individuals and social media platforms to protect their users’ freedom of expression and privacy.
TON Appeals to Global Organizations for Support
The letter also calls on international organizations such as the United Nations, the Council of Europe, and the European Union to challenge France’s actions and uphold the fundamental right to liberty online.
Pavel Durov was initially detained by French police at Le Bourget Airport, located north of Paris, on the night of August 25. Since then, information regarding the arrest has been sparse. Nearly 48 hours later, the French Prosecutor’s Office issued a press release listing a series of charges against Durov.
His detention has been extended and could last up to 96 hours. The arrest has sparked concerns among advocates of digital freedom, given Durov’s longstanding commitment to securing the freedom of expression for over 950 million Telegram users, many of whom reside in countries where this right is restricted.
Contrary to accusations of inadequate content moderation on Telegram, the TON Society’s letter asserts that Telegram’s moderation policies comply with European Union laws, including the Digital Services Act.
The letter highlights that Telegram’s policies align with industry standards and continually evolve to meet new challenges. Despite these efforts, Durov’s arrest marks a troubling precedent, as he is the only founder of a social media platform to face such severe legal consequences.
According to the Open Network Society, Durov’s arrest will undoubtedly have negative consequences, especially in light of this person’s commitment to respecting the Freedom of Expression and the Right to Privacy granted by the European Convention on Human Rights. The group fears that such measures taken by the French government may violate these rights.
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