From censorship to legitimacy: competing strategies to tackle online disinformation and their implications for freedom of expression
Abstract
In this article, I explore the conceptual, legal, and political challenges surrounding disinformation in the digital environment. Based on a review of empirical research and concrete examples related to the topic, I discuss different policies and legal solutions to address the dissemination of false or misleading content in the European and Brazilian contexts. Finally, I highlight the risks of censorship and legal uncertainty in imposing limits on freedom of expression based on the categorization of disinformation or analogous formulations such as “fake news” as an unlawful act.
Received: 01.05.2025
Accepted: 10.06.2025
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Last update: 08/02/2022
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