ImpACT International for Human Rights Policies, a London-based think tank dedicated to advancing human rights at the intersection of states and businesses, unequivocally condemns the recent decision by French authorities to prevent Pavel Durov, founder of Telegram, from attending the Oslo Freedom Forum. This action represents a grave affront to the principles of free expression, due process, and the global struggle for digital rights. We call on the French government to immediately reconsider its stance and uphold its commitments under international human rights law.
Pavel Durov, a dual French and UAE citizen and the founder of Telegram, was arrested by French authorities in August 2024 at Le Bourget Airport, Paris. He faces twelve charges, including complicity in the distribution of child sexual abuse material, drug trafficking, and money laundering. Released on a €5 million bail, Durov has been required to remain in France and report to police twice weekly. Despite previously being allowed to travel outside France, the Paris court has now denied his request to attend the Oslo Freedom Forum, citing a “high” risk of absconding.
The Oslo Freedom Forum, scheduled for May 27, 2025, is a globally recognized event hosted by the Human Rights Foundation, bringing together activists, technologists, and thought leaders to discuss free speech, surveillance, and digital rights. Durov was slated to deliver a keynote address on the critical role of encrypted communications in resisting authoritarianism. Due to the French court’s decision, he will now participate remotely via livestream.
A Blow to Free Expression and Digital Rights
The decision to bar Pavel Durov from attending the Oslo Freedom Forum is not merely a procedural matter; it is a direct attack on the ability of civil society leaders to participate in critical global dialogues. By preventing Durov from traveling, French authorities are silencing a prominent voice in the fight for digital freedom and privacy. Telegram has become an essential tool for activists, journalists, and ordinary citizens resisting tyranny worldwide. To restrict its founder’s movement is to undermine the very values that the Oslo Freedom Forum seeks to promote.
Due Process and the Presumption of Innocence
We are deeply concerned that the French authorities’ actions violate the principle of presumption of innocence. Durov has not been convicted of any crime. The imposition of severe travel restrictions, particularly for the purpose of attending a human rights forum, is disproportionate and sets a dangerous precedent. Such measures risk being perceived as punitive rather than protective, especially when the accused has demonstrated compliance with all legal requirements thus far.
Political Interference and the Chilling Effect
Durov has publicly alleged that French intelligence officials pressured him to censor conservative political voices in Romania ahead of its presidential election—a request he refused. While French authorities have denied these claims, the timing and severity of the restrictions raise serious questions about political motivation. As Durov stated:
“You can't 'defend democracy' by destroying democracy. You can't 'fight election interference' by interfering with elections.”
The chilling effect of these actions cannot be overstated. When states use judicial measures to silence or intimidate technology leaders, it sends a message to all those who dare to challenge the status quo: dissent will not be tolerated.
Contradiction with France’s Human Rights Commitments
France has long positioned itself as a champion of human rights and free expression. Yet, this decision starkly contradicts those values. By blocking Durov’s participation in a non-violent, internationally recognized forum, French authorities undermine their own credibility and weaken the global human rights framework. The Human Rights Foundation’s founder, Thor Halvorssen, captured this sentiment:
“It is unfortunate that French courts would block Mr. Durov from participating in an event where his voice is so needed. Technologies like Telegram are basic tools for those resisting tyranny. This is more than a disappointment for our community; it is a setback for freedom.”
The Broader Implications
Impact on Civil Society and Technology
Telegram’s role as a secure communication platform is indispensable for civil society actors operating under threat. The French court’s actions risk setting a precedent whereby governments can target technology leaders under the guise of criminal investigations, thereby weakening digital security for millions. This not only jeopardizes the safety of activists and journalists but also emboldens authoritarian regimes to follow suit.
Diplomatic and Industry Fallout
The arrest and ongoing legal case have already sparked protests from free-speech activists and Telegram users. Diplomatic tensions between France and Russia have escalated, and the tech and crypto industries are closely monitoring the implications for individual freedom and digital rights. The message is clear: the international community is watching, and the stakes are high.
The Role of Human Rights Organizations
As a think tank committed to monitoring and advising on human rights policies at the intersection of states and businesses, ImpACT International is alarmed by the trend of using national security and criminal law as tools to suppress dissent and control the digital public sphere. We echo the calls of other human rights organizations for transparency, accountability, and respect for due process.
Immediate Reconsideration of Travel Ban
We urge the French judiciary and government to immediately reconsider their decision and allow Pavel Durov to attend the Oslo Freedom Forum in person. Participation in international human rights dialogues must not be contingent on political expediency or unsubstantiated fears of flight.
Uphold International Human Rights Standards
France must reaffirm its commitment to international human rights law, including the rights to free expression, assembly, and due process. Judicial measures should be proportionate, transparent, and subject to independent oversight.
Protect Digital Rights and Civil Society
We call on all democratic governments to recognize the vital role of secure communication platforms in protecting human rights. Efforts to combat criminal content online must not come at the expense of fundamental freedoms or the safety of those who rely on these tools for survival.
Ensure Accountability and Transparency
The allegations of political interference in content moderation must be independently investigated. Any attempt by state actors to manipulate digital platforms for political gain is unacceptable and must be met with robust accountability mechanisms.
The decision to prevent Pavel Durov from attending the Oslo Freedom Forum is a setback for freedom, not only for one individual but for all those who rely on digital tools to speak truth to power. ImpACT International for Human Rights Policies stands in solidarity with Durov and all those who defend digital rights against state overreach. We will continue to monitor this case closely and advocate for policies that protect, rather than undermine, the fundamental rights of individuals and communities worldwide.
France must choose whether it will stand with those who defend freedom or with those who seek to curtail it. The world is watching.