Mexican Senate approves copyright reform targeting internet content

The Mexican Senate has approved a reform to the Federal Copyright Law, a measure promoted by President Claudia Sheinbaum that seeks to regulate digital content. The reform passed with 70 votes in favor and 37 against.

The new regulations impose increased responsibilities on digital platforms and internet service providers regarding the dissemination of content that allegedly infringes on copyrights. Under the new framework, companies must expeditiously remove flagged material and implement mechanisms to suspend or cancel accounts of users who repeatedly commit such infractions.

Opposition lawmakers and industry groups, including the National Chamber of the Radio and Television Industry, have warned that the law could facilitate censorship. Critics argue that the use of vague terms such as “contribute,” “induce,” or “cause” an infringement could lead to the removal of political satire, memes, and journalistic criticism. Opponents expressed concern that the law lacks specific protections for content creators and journalists, potentially allowing for the misuse of copyright claims to suppress free expression online.