FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION, THE RIGHT TO RELIABLE INFORMATION, AND DIGITAL PLATFORM LIABILITY: AN ANALYSIS OF THEMES 987 AND 533 OF THE BRAZILIAN FEDERAL SUPREME COURT

Abstract

This article analyzes the relationship between freedom of expression, the right to reliable information, and the liability of internet application providers, with a focus on Themes 987 and 533 of the general repercussion doctrine of the Brazilian Federal Supreme Court. It is based on the understanding that freedom of expression constitutes an essential foundation of the Democratic Rule of Law, although it is not absolute when it conflicts with other fundamental rights. Through qualitative research of a bibliographic and documentary nature, the study examines legal scholarship, relevant legislation, and precedents of the Brazilian Federal Supreme Court concerning the liability regime established by the Brazilian Civil Rights Framework for the Internet. The study demonstrates that the large-scale dissemination of unlawful and misleading content requires legal mechanisms capable of reconciling pluralism, the protection of human dignity, and information security. It concludes that Themes 987 and 533 represent an important development in redefining the duties of digital platforms by establishing differentiated liability criteria and reinforcing the need for legislative action capable of ensuring a balance among freedom of expression, the right to information, and democracy.