Starlink defies Brazilian court order, won’t block access to X

Starlink, led by Elon Musk, has defied Brazil’s Anatel by refusing to block access to the social media platform X, formerly Twitter. This decision was made public on September 1, 2024, despite a Supreme Court directive. Starlink cites the freezing of its assets as the reason for non-compliance.

Anatel’s president, Carlos Baigorri, confirmed Starlink’s stance to local media and suggested Justice Moraes take appropriate action. This conflict stems from oppressive legal demands imposed by Moraes, leading X to announce the closure of its Brazil office on August 17.

As the top satellite internet provider in Brazil with 42% market share, Starlink’s refusal has escalated tensions. Justice Moraes has responded with increased fines and strict compliance deadlines. With 215,000 clients, Starlink serves diverse sectors, including remote Amazon communities.

Operating since 2022, Starlink’s satellite network offers faster data transfer due to its proximity to Earth. This legal battle sets a precedent for tech companies under national laws, highlighting the importance of clear legal standards and ongoing dialogue in global internet governance.