Brazil's Top Court Weighs In: Holding Social Media Platforms Accountable for Harmful Content

Brazil's Supreme Court resumes debate on digital platform accountability for harmful online content. The STF resumed its deliberations on June 4th, 2025, focusing on the constitutionality of Article 19 of the Internet Civil Framework Law. This article addresses the liability of digital platforms for content posted by their users. Minister Luís Roberto Barroso advocated for partial unconstitutionality of the article, while other ministers held differing views. The ongoing trial highlights the challenges of regulating online content and balancing freedom of expression with the need to combat misinformation and harmful content. Minister Dias Toffoli's comments emphasized the importance of considering the context in which platforms are held responsible, stating, "The responsibility only exists if and when a judicial decision is not complied with." The trial's resumption underscores the significance of this legal battle in shaping the digital landscape in Brazil and beyond.