Elon Musk’s X Resumes Operations in Brazil After Complying with Court Orders

Social media platform X returns to Brazil after a months-long suspension, reversing Musk’s stance on legal compliance

Elon Musk’s social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, has been cleared to resume service in Brazil after complying with court orders, marking a significant reversal in Musk’s approach to the country’s legal demands. Brazil’s Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes gave the green light on Tuesday, ending the platform’s suspension, which had been in effect since late August due to non-compliance with hate speech moderation and failure to name a legal representative in the country, as required by Brazilian law.

The months-long standoff between Musk and Brazilian authorities stemmed from the platform’s refusal to follow court rulings aimed at curbing disinformation and hate speech. Musk had initially condemned these orders, labeling them as censorship and referring to Moraes as a “dictator.” However, in recent weeks, Musk’s stance softened, and X began to comply with the court’s mandates, including blocking flagged accounts, appointing a local legal representative, and paying accumulated fines.

Moraes, who had spearheaded efforts to hold X accountable, acknowledged the platform’s compliance, stating that all necessary requirements had been met. As a result, he instructed Brazil’s telecommunications regulator, Anatel, to restore X’s service within 24 hours.

During the suspension, X’s absence was felt across Brazil, one of its largest markets, with 21.5 million users as of April 2023. Many users migrated to alternative platforms such as Bluesky and Meta-owned Threads during the platform’s hiatus. Brazil’s communication minister, Juscelino Filho, hailed X’s decision to comply with the court orders as a “victory for the country,” emphasizing that Brazil’s laws must be respected by all, regardless of wealth or influence.

Musk’s legal battle with Brazil underscores the broader tension between his free speech advocacy and government efforts worldwide to regulate online platforms. The conflict in Brazil is one of several global disputes Musk has faced, including clashes with authorities in Australia and the United Kingdom over the spread of misinformation.

Despite its turbulent relationship with the Brazilian government, X expressed pride in returning to the country. Through its Global Affairs account, the platform reaffirmed its commitment to defending free speech within the boundaries of local laws.

This reinstatement of X in Brazil also signals a new chapter for Musk’s relationship with the country, with Justice Moraes allowing the platform to operate again after months of legal confrontation. The resolution highlights the delicate balance Musk must navigate as a self-proclaimed champion of free speech while adhering to the legal frameworks of the countries where his businesses operate.