In a high-stakes courtroom showdown that could redefine internet regulation, Australia’s online watchdog is demanding Elon Musk’s X remove violent content worldwide – not just locally. The battle revolves around graphic footage of a Sydney church stabbing, with authorities arguing geoblocking isn’t enough to protect Australians.
What’s the Fight About?
After a knife attack during a live-streamed service in April, Australia’s eSafety Commission ordered X to take down 65 clips of the incident. While X blocked the videos within Australia, users quickly bypassed restrictions using VPNs – tools used by 1 in 4 Aussies.
‘Global Removal or Bust’
Government lawyers argue X already has systems for worldwide content removal but refuses to activate them. ‘If your tech can do it, it’s reasonable to demand it,’ declared commission rep Tim Begbie. X counters that removal orders should only apply locally, comparing the violent footage to ‘war movies’ that don’t violate content policies.
Why It Matters
This case tests whether national laws can dictate global content policies – a key issue as governments worldwide grapple with violent online material. With the court extending X’s takedown order until next week, all eyes are on whether Musk’s platform will comply or double down on its ‘free speech’ stance.
New twist: The recovered bishop involved has publicly supported sharing the video, adding cultural complexity to the legal drama.
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