La libertad de expresión y la regulación de contenido en las plataformas virtuales de Facebook y Twitter

Abstract

The right to freedom of expression is currently embedded in virtual platforms such as Facebook and Twitter. However, offensive content is disseminated under this protection, violating users' fundamental rights. In this regard, the main objective of this research was to analyze freedom of expression in content regulation on the virtual platforms of Facebook and Twitter. The methodology employed in this study was qualitative, allowing for an exploration of freedom of expression and content regulation policies on Facebook and Twitter. Research techniques such as interviews with constitutional lawyers and computer and systems engineers were employed, which provided a specialized and technical perspective on freedom of expression on virtual platforms, as well as the systems, mechanisms, and parameters used by Facebook and Twitter to regulate offensive content. Therefore, this research is immersed within the line of research on public policy, law, and society. The research results show that content regulation policies attempt to balance freedom of expression with fundamental rights, yet are neither clear nor understandable. The conclusion is that freedom of expression on Facebook and Twitter is moderated through policies, yet they face challenges. Therefore, the centralized management of these policies on virtual platforms and the lack of a clear and specific law on the regulation of harmful or prejudicial content in the National State are highlighted.