Brazil’s Superior Electoral Court (TSE) has fined Meta 7.5 million reais, approximately $1.3 million, for failing to fully comply with judicial orders during the country’s 2026 presidential election.
The unanimous decision was announced on Tuesday, November 10, following allegations that the technology company treated political content from President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva’s campaign differently from that of his rival, Flavio Bolsonaro.
Lula’s campaign had accused Meta of algorithmic manipulation, claiming that the platform restricted the reach of content supporting the president while favouring Bolsonaro’s campaign during the run-up to the October 25 runoff vote.
The court, however, clarified that it had not established any deliberate attempt by Meta to influence the election in favour of a particular candidate.
Why Did Brazil Fine Meta?
The case was brought by the coalition supporting Lula’s presidential campaign. It alleged that Meta’s platforms had restricted the distribution of pro-Lula content and failed to ensure equal treatment of the competing campaigns.
During the proceedings, the court directed Meta to provide technical explanations and information about how political content was being distributed, moderated and advertised across its platforms.
However, reporting judge Marco Aurélio Bellizze said the company submitted incomplete information, missed deadlines and provided explanations that lacked sufficient transparency. Some responses were also presented in aggregated data or general statements, making it difficult for the court to verify compliance.
Meta Denies Allegations Of Political Bias
Meta denied that it had favoured one presidential candidate over another. The company maintained that its platforms applied the same rules to political candidates and rejected claims of deliberate political interference.
The court’s ruling also did not establish that Meta intentionally manipulated content distribution to influence the election. Instead, the penalty concerned the company’s handling of the court’s instructions and its failure to provide complete and timely information.
Following his electoral victory, Lula called for social media companies to be regulated, saying that authorities would need to address the influence of major technology platforms.
The ruling adds to the growing debate over the role of social media algorithms, political advertising and transparency during elections.
FAQs
Q: Why was Meta fined in Brazil?
A: Meta was fined for failing to fully comply with court orders and provide complete, timely and transparent information during an investigation into alleged election-related bias.
Q: How much is the fine imposed on Meta?
A: Brazil’s Superior Electoral Court imposed a fine of 7.5 million reais, approximately $1.3 million.
Q: Did the court find that Meta deliberately influenced the election?
A: No. The court said it had not established deliberate action by Meta to favour a particular candidate.
Q: Which platforms are owned by Meta?
A: Meta operates Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp, among other products.