- Open letter from The Open Network (TON) community supports Telegram founder Pavel Durov.
- Over 2 million signatures gathered demanding Durov’s immediate release.
- Community condemns Durov’s arrest as an attack on freedom of expression and privacy.
- Calls for intervention from EU, UN, and other organizations to protect internet freedom.
- Prominent figures like Elon Musk and Vitalik Buterin have expressed support for Durov.
- Durov faces serious charges including drug distribution, child pornography, and money laundering.
Massive Public Support for Telegram Founder Pavel Durov
The Open Network (TON) community has demonstrated significant support for Pavel Durov, the founder of Telegram, by gathering over 2 million signatures in an open letter calling for his immediate release. The letter, hosted in the Digital Resistance mini-app within Telegram, vehemently condemns Durov’s arrest by French authorities as a direct assault on freedom of expression and privacy rights.
Allegations and Global Backlash
Durov was detained on the night of August 25, 2024, facing severe accusations such as involvement in drug distribution, child pornography, and money laundering. In response, the TON community has proactively sought the intervention of international organizations like the EU and the UN. They argue that Durov’s imprisonment is not just a personal attack but a broader threat to internet freedom.
Compliance and Moderation
The open letter emphasizes that Telegram complies with EU laws, including the Digital Services Act. The community highlights that the app’s content moderation policies align with international standards, refuting any claims that Telegram facilitates illegal activities.
Support from Influential Figures
Notably, many high-profile individuals have voiced their support for Durov. This includes Elon Musk, the owner of X, Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin, and former CIA agent Edward Snowden. Their backing adds significant weight to the public outcry against Durov’s arrest.
Community Actions and Solidarity
In a show of solidarity, developers from The Open Network have changed their social media avatars to support Durov. This collective action underscores the strong community sentiment and the broader implications of Durov’s detention.
Pavel Durov’s case has become a focal point for discussions on digital rights and internet freedom. The TON community’s swift and robust response highlights the ongoing tension between state actions and individual freedoms in the digital age. The outcome of this situation will likely have far-reaching implications for the crypto and tech communities worldwide.
