Nuno Sá Costa, Founding Partner of Dower Law Firm, appeared on RTP’s Duas de Prosa podcast to discuss online hate speech, the limits of freedom of expression, and the legal liability arising from comments published on digital platforms.
Throughout the episode, the discussion explored the various legal distinctions between the legitimate exercise of freedom of expression and conduct that may constitute a criminal offence, particularly when comments posted on social media exceed legally permissible boundaries. The conversation also highlighted the importance of distinguishing opinions, criticism, and expressions of thought from content that may amount to criminal offences, as well as the role and responsibility of digital platforms in moderating and managing such content.
The discussion further addressed the importance of individuals affected by unlawful conduct filing and pursuing complaints as an essential means of ensuring intervention by the competent authorities and holding those responsible for unlawful behaviour in the digital environment accountable.
At a time when social media platforms are increasingly used as spaces for communication and public debate, defining the boundaries between freedom of expression and the protection of individual rights has become particularly relevant, presenting new challenges for law enforcement, the accountability of digital platforms, and the protection of individuals against online hate speech.
