UHH down from X!The AStA leaves X - and calls on the university to do the same!

24 January 2025

X, formerly Twitter, has long been the most popular platform for short text messages. However, since the platform was taken over by the richest person in the world, multi-billionaire and tech entrepreneur Elon Musk, the climate on the platform has changed, with X's algorithms promoting right-wing populist content while restricting fact-based posts. At the same time, moderation mechanisms have been greatly reduced, making it easier to spread disinformation, hate speech and extremist narratives.

For these reasons, over 60 German universities, including LMU Munich and TU Dresden, have withdrawn from the platform. They justify their decision with their commitment to fact-based communication and against anti-democratic forces, as the values of diversity, freedom and science are no longer guaranteed on X.

The AStA has therefore also decided to discontinue its activities on the X platform (formerly Twitter). In doing so, we are taking responsibility for the worrying developments under the leadership of Elon Musk and would like to call on the University of Hamburg to follow suit.

Withdrawing X would also send a strong signal against hate speech and in favour of a respectful, democratic culture of discussion. Its continued use is contrary to the university's values, and numerous alternative platforms such as Bluesky or Mastodon make it possible to continue communicating with the public without supporting problematic developments. We therefore urge the University of Hamburg to take a clear position and cease its activities on X.