Pavel Durov Arrested Amid Free Speech Debate

Pavel Durov, the founder of Telegram, was arrested in France on charges including promotion of terrorism and child sexual abuse material, sparking a debate over free speech and the responsibilities of social media platforms. Critics argue that Durov's hands-off approach to moderation has enabled criminal activities on his platform, while supporters view him as a champion of online freedoms, resisting EU regulations demanding user data sharing. The EU Digital Services Act does not require platforms like Telegram to monitor content proactively, complicating the narrative around Durov's arrest. Some see the charges against him as politically motivated, suggesting a clash between Durov's commitment to user privacy and European demands for compliance. Telegram's role as a haven for illicit activities highlights the tension between privacy and regulation in the digital age. Durov's arrest has drawn support from a diverse range of users, amplifying discussions around censorship and digital rights.