Attack on democracy in Brazil: The EU must propose new legislation to fight fascism and extremism online

The Renew Europe Group in the European Parliament condemns in the strongest terms the criminal actions perpetrated by supporters of ex-president Jair Bolsonaro against the Brazilian Executive, Legislative and the Supreme Court and calls on the Commission to strictly enforce the Digital Services Act to fight disinformation and hatred, and to propose new legislation to curb fascism and extremism online.

During today’s plenary debate on the urgency resolution concerning the storming of Brazilian democratic institutions, Renew Europe reiterated its support to the Brazilian authorities, showing solidarity with the elected President Lula da Silva and the Brazilian institutions in their defence of democracy and the rule of law.

Renew Europe MEP, Samira Rafaela (D66, The Netherlands), who negotiated the resolution on behalf of our Group, said:

“The shocking attack on the democratic institutions in Brazil is part of a global phenomenon of increasing fascism and extremism. Especially social media and tech companies have a huge role in the spreading of these radical ideas. Therefore, legislation that effectively combats and prevents this is key; in Brazil, the EU, and the entire world. By saving other democracies, we are saving ourselves.”