Why is ‘delete account’ not offered automatically to all users at all times?

[RGJ (Richard - Communiteq)]

@kDE

Practically, I do not see any valid interest that “outweighs” the user’s interest in having a clear record if the person wishes so.

But what Stephen said:

@Stephen

The right to be forgotten doesn’t extend to the lawful processing of information for reasons you might dislike.

@kDE

and freedom of expression (e.g. political or controversial opinion-based posts).

Freedom of expression is more broad. Reiterating what I said before:

GDPR article 17.3

Paragraphs 1 and 2 shall not apply to the extent that processing is necessary:

• for exercising the right of freedom of expression and information;

Recital 65 #5

However, the further retention of the personal data should be lawful where it is necessary, for exercising the right of freedom of expression and information

(which implies that the retention of personal data is lawful, even when the data subject has withdrawn his or her consent)

and this can be used for forum owners to retain the actual forum posts.

(source: Dutch internet laywer Arnoud Engelfriet, see article in Dutch)