Brazil fake news bill will face obstacles in Congress

Significance

If enacted, it could substantially transform several aspects of the Brazilian internet. However, its many controversial points mean that its approval is far from guaranteed, especially as the centre-left-led government (which supports it) lacks a clear majority in Congress and will in any case choose to spend its limited political capital on other aspects of its agenda.

Impacts

• Different aspects of the bill may be put to votes in Congress individually.
• Separate votes on specific aspects of the bill would increase their chances of approval.
• Separate votes would almost certainly leave out key controversial areas, including content moderation.