The originally Russian platform is primarily used for spreading information, including fake news and propaganda. Telegram is notorious for its ability to send and receive messages anonymously, without these messages being monitored or moderated as on other platforms.
The network, launched in 2013, has since built an enormous global user base. This has made the platform attractive to individuals and groups involved in illegal activities, extremism, and the dissemination of false information. This has especially raised concerns during sensitive political situations, such as elections or protests, about the impact of this information on public opinion.
The European Union and other international organizations have repeatedly expressed their concerns about the role of platforms like Telegram in facilitating the spread of harmful information. Despite several calls for stricter regulation, Telegram has adhered to its principles of minimal interference in its users' communications.
Durov’s arrest comes at a time when the European Union is intensifying its efforts to curb the spread of information and propaganda on social media platforms. Brussels believes that platforms like Telegram, despite their focus on privacy, must take responsibility for the content distributed on their network.
In recent years, the European Union has taken several legislative steps to combat the spread of disinformation. One such example is the Digital Services Act (DSA), which obliges platforms to quickly remove harmful content. However, Telegram, due to its structure, often falls outside this regulation, making it a thorn in the side of policymakers in Brussels.
EU countries emphasize that the rules should be the same for all social media platforms, regardless of their geographic location or business model. This means that Telegram must also comply with the EU’s requirements for transparency and accountability of online platforms.
The arrest of Pavel Durov can be seen as a symbolic step toward more oversight and control over social media platforms. However, it is still unclear what concrete consequences this will have for the future of Telegram and similar platforms.