French President Emmanuel Macron responded firmly on Monday to the escalating backlash from the tech community following the arrest of Telegram CEO Pavel Durov.
Macron insisted that the arrest was not politically motivated, stating that France remains committed to freedom of expression, innovation, and entrepreneurship.
“I have seen false information regarding France following the arrest of Pavel Durov,” Macron posted on social media. “France is deeply committed to freedom of expression and communication, to innovation, and to the spirit of entrepreneurship. It will remain so.”
Durov, a prominent advocate for free speech and privacy, was arrested on August 24 by French authorities as he stepped off his private jet near Paris. The arrest, which came as a surprise to many, has sparked widespread condemnation from tech leaders and civil rights advocates who view it as an attack on digital freedom.
The charges against Durov are serious, including allegations of facilitating terrorism, drug trafficking, and organized fraud by failing to moderate content on Telegram, a messaging app known for its strong encryption and privacy features. French prosecutors revealed that Durov has been under investigation since July 8, and that the charges also involve providing cryptology tools without proper authorization.
In the wake of Durov’s arrest, prominent figures in the tech industry, including former Coinbase CTO Balaji Srinivasan and whistleblower Edward Snowden, have voiced their concerns. Srinivasan criticized the French government, accusing it of stifling innovation and freedom. He questioned why anyone would want to build or even visit France under such circumstances.
Snowden also expressed his disappointment in Macron, stating that the arrest was an assault on basic human rights and calling it a dangerous precedent.
The French prosecutor’s office defended the arrest, emphasizing that it is part of an ongoing judicial investigation. They have extended Durov’s detention until August 28 as they continue to question him.
Telegram, in response, stated that Durov has “nothing to hide” and that the company complies with European Union laws, including the Digital Services Act. The platform has faced increasing scrutiny from governments worldwide due to its strong privacy features, which some argue can be exploited by criminals.
It is worth noting that the the United Arab Emirates is closely monitoring the case of Durov, who holds an Emirati citizenship, following his arrest in France and the subsequent extension of his detention. The UAE’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced that it has requested the French government to urgently provide Durov with all necessary consular services. Highlighting the priority of protecting its citizens, the ministry emphasized its commitment to their well-being.
“Caring for citizens, preserving their interests, following up on their affairs, and providing them with all aspects of care are a top priority for the UAE,” the ministry said in the statement.
Durov, who has multiple citizenships including that of the UAE, could remain in French custody for up to four days before a decision is made on whether to charge or release him.
The arrest has not only sparked a debate about freedom of expression and the role of technology in society but also raised questions about the future of Telegram and its place in the global tech landscape. There is no doubt that the world is watching closely to see how this case will impact the broader conversation around privacy, security, and the power of technology in an increasingly connected world.
