Brazil’s Push to Combat Child Exploitation on Social Media Faces Opposition

The Brazilian government is pushing to fast-track a bill combating the adultification of minors on social media, following the arrest of influencer Hytalo Santos for alleged child exploitation. House Speaker Hugo Motta and allied lawmakers aim to vote this week, but opposition parties threaten to block the proposal, arguing it could lead to censorship. The bill gained momentum after influencer Felca’s viral video exposed Santos’ activities, sparking national outrage.

The opposition criticizes vague language in the bill, particularly the term ’probable access,’ which they claim could overreach beyond child protection. Another contentious point grants a government-appointed authority power to sanction tech platforms, raising fears of state overreach. Despite objections, the bill’s rapporteur insists the text is ready for voting, though he remains open to dialogue.

Motta initially planned a month-long review but accelerated the process after public pressure. The bill’s fate hinges on balancing child safety with free speech concerns, as Brazil grapples with regulating social media’s darker corners. Santos’ arrest in São Paulo and the involvement of multiple prosecutors highlight the urgency of the issue.

child exploitationsocial mediaBrazillegislationHugo MottaFelcaHytalo Santosoppositionpoliticsbig tech