Regulation of digital platforms in Brazil and the defense of national sovereignty

Abstract

Advanced technologies led by major Silicon Valley companies, known as Big Tech, play a central role in 21st-century capitalism. These companies, representing seven of the world's ten most valuable companies according to Brand Finance in 2023, have significantly expanded their influence over national states, thus confronting the sovereignty of these countries. This phenomenon is exemplified by events such as Meta's influence in the Cambridge Analytica case and Google's interventions in the debate over the "Fake News Bill". These episodes highlight the ability of Big Tech to influence global political decisions and challenge state autonomy. This study aims to explore the regulation of digital platforms as one of the many challenges faced by states in preserving their sovereignty. Approaches from researchers and experts are examined to understand the interaction between economic and political challenges in the context of digital influences on national sovereignty. Moreover, a methodology is proposed to address such challenges, considering both existing discussions and new perspectives. Finally, the study suggests the implementation of antitrust policies, regulations based on human rights, and the promotion of state initiatives for technological innovation as ways to strengthen state sovereignty against the challenges imposed by Big Tech. The complexity of these issues indicates that there is still much to explore and discuss, requiring a dynamic and adaptive approach to the regulation of emerging technologies and the protection of national autonomy.