Blocking Telegram in Ukraine Could Undermine Freedom of Speech — National Council
Blocking the Telegram messaging app in Ukraine is the most drastic measure and requires careful justification, as it could negatively impact freedom of speech and the work of the media.
This was reported by the National Council on Television and Radio Broadcasting.
The regulator emphasizes that the main issue is the balance between national security and citizens’ right to access information. Any decisions must be proportionate and legally justified.
The National Council noted that Ukraine lacks the technical capability to block individual channels or accounts on Telegram, as it is a foreign platform. The only possible option is a complete block of the service within the country.
At the same time, according to the regulator’s assessment, such a step could create serious obstacles for the operation of Telegram channels, particularly those registered as online media, and even lead to the cessation of their operations.
The National Council also drew attention to the discussion regarding security risks associated with Telegram, which some representatives of the security services link to an aggressor state. In this context, the issue of consistency in state policy regarding the restriction of such IT products is raised.
At the same time, the regulator emphasizes that Ukraine currently lacks a separate body that would comprehensively regulate the activities of social networks and platforms for shared access to information.
If a decision is made to restrict Telegram’s operations, it can be challenged in court, which will determine its legality.
As a reminder, is it possible to block Telegram in Ukraine, and does it make sense to do so?
Telegram has also rolled out a major update with a range of new features for regular users and Premium subscribers.
