Pavel Durov, founder of Telegram, faced travel restrictions imposed by a French court, preventing him from attending the Oslo Freedom Forum in Norway. Durov, under investigation since his detention in 2024 for illegal content on Telegram, was initially set to speak about free speech and surveillance. His absence was described as a significant loss for advocates of freedom. Despite some restrictions, he has been vocal about government requests affecting his platform, particularly with alleged pressure from France to suppress specific accounts. He will now participate virtually instead of in person.
"It is unfortunate that French courts would block Mr. Durov from participating in an event where his voice is so needed... a setback for freedom."
"Technologies like Telegram are basic tools for those resisting tyranny. This is more than a disappointment for our community; it’s a setback for freedom."
"Since his arrest, Durov had appeared to bow to Paris's demands for stronger efforts to ensure illegal content was not on Telegram."
"He had been due to speak at the Oslo Freedom Forum on Tuesday, addressing the annual gathering on the subject of free speech, surveillance and digital rights."
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