French Court Blocks Telegram Founder from Speaking at Oslo Freedom Forum
Pavel Durov, founder of encrypted messaging platform Telegram, has been barred by a French court from attending the Oslo Freedom Forum to speak on digital rights and surveillance. The decision underscores growing tensions between privacy advocates and regulatory authorities.
The Human Rights Foundation condemned the ruling, emphasizing Telegram’s role as a critical tool for dissent under oppressive regimes. Thor Halvorssen, the foundation’s CEO, framed the MOVE as an attack on free expression rather than mere bureaucratic obstruction.