Key Takeaways:
- Tech backlash: French President Macron faces criticism after Telegram co-founder Pavel Durov’s detention, with tech leaders decrying it as a free speech violation.
- International appeal: The TON Society has called on global bodies like the UN and EU to intervene, emphasizing the importance of encryption and resistance to state censorship.
- Continued tensions: Despite denying political motives, Macron’s stance hasn’t alleviated concerns; Durov’s detention has been extended, prompting fears among other tech executives.
French President Emmanuel Macron is facing criticism from tech leaders following the detention of Telegram co-founder Pavel Durov in France.
The Open Network (TON) Society has issued an open letter demanding Durov’s release, condemning his arrest as a violation of free speech.
𝐓𝐨𝐝𝐚𝐲, 𝐓𝐎𝐍 𝐒𝐨𝐜𝐢𝐞𝐭𝐲 𝐥𝐚𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐬 𝐚 𝐟𝐢𝐫𝐬𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐢𝐭𝐬 𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐝 𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐮𝐫𝐠𝐞 𝐅𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐭𝐨 #FREEDUROV.
— TON Society 🆓 (@ton_society) August 27, 2024
An Open Letter Mini App in Telegram.
Anyone who values privacy and freedom of speech should sign this letter to French… pic.twitter.com/i46ohO7F9G
The letter appeals to international bodies, including the United Nations and the European Union, to intervene.
It also stresses the importance of encryption in protecting fundamental rights and urges tech companies to resist state censorship.
Despite the growing backlash, French authorities have extended Durov’s detention until August 28, citing an ongoing investigation.
I have seen false information regarding France following the arrest of Pavel Durov.
— Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) August 26, 2024
France is deeply committed to freedom of expression and communication, to innovation, and to the spirit of entrepreneurship. It will remain so.
In a state governed by the rule of law,…
President Macron has denied any political motivation behind the arrest, but this has not eased the concerns.
Meanwhile, Rumble CEO Chris Pavlovski has reportedly left Europe, fearing similar actions against other tech executives.