On January 20, 2024, the same day Donald Trump is inaugurated as the new U.S. president, 11.11.11—an umbrella organization for international solidarity—and over 30 of its member civil society groups will bid farewell to X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter. This collective departure is a response to what they describe as an unchecked rise in hate speech, disinformation, and political manipulation on the platform.
“X is a danger to democracy,human rights,and humanity,” stated 11.11.11 in a recent press release. Prominent members like Oxfam, Chirojeugd Vlaanderen, Çavaria, and Broederlijk Delen echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the platform’s harmful impact on society.
Els hertogen, director of 11.11.11, didn’t mince words: “As Musk’s open radicalization, open hate speech and political manipulation that are allowed without moderation have increased exponentially. X is no longer an open discussion platform, but a threat to the foundations of our society. The lack of obligation and ethical boundaries has a profound effect on our democracy, the protection of human rights, and humanity.”
The organization is urging othre civil society actors, media companies, and political leaders to follow suit and withdraw their support for X. They’ve also commended media outlets that have already left the platform. As for their own next steps, 11.11.11 plans to transition to Bluesky, an alternative microblogging site.
Alongside 11.11.11, a diverse array of organizations—including BOS+, Caritas International, Fairtrade Belgium, Fian Belgium, and Oxfam Belgium—are also stepping away from X. while not all of 11.11.11’s 52 member organizations are participating,the list of departures is extensive,spanning various sectors from environmental advocacy to human rights.
This move highlights growing concerns among civil society groups about the ethical responsibilities of social media platforms. As X continues to grapple with controversies surrounding moderation and accountability, these organizations are taking a stand, choosing to prioritize their values over the platform’s reach.
As the digital landscape evolves, the departure of these influential groups may signal a broader shift in how organizations engage with social media—and what they demand from the platforms they use.
Given the increasing concerns about hate speech,disinformation,and political manipulation on platforms like X,how can civil society organizations effectively advocate for ethical and responsible practices in the digital sphere?
Table of Contents
- 1. Given the increasing concerns about hate speech,disinformation,and political manipulation on platforms like X,how can civil society organizations effectively advocate for ethical and responsible practices in the digital sphere?
- 2. Exclusive interview: civil Society’s Stand Against Social Media Toxicity
- 3. The Decision to Leave X
- 4. The ethical Duty of Social Media
- 5. Transitioning to Bluesky
- 6. Calling for Collective Action
- 7. The future of Social Media Engagement
- 8. Thought-Provoking Question
Considering the recent mass exodus of civil society groups from X (formerly Twitter),we sat down with Dr. Clara Nielsen, a digital ethics expert and senior advisor at 11.11.11, to discuss the implications of this decision and the broader issues at play in the digital landscape.
The Decision to Leave X
Archyde: Dr. Nielsen, 11.11.11 and its member organizations recently announced their departure from X. what prompted this collective decision?
Dr. Nielsen: This wasn’t a decision we took lightly. Over the past year, we’ve witnessed an alarming rise in hate speech, disinformation, and political manipulation on the platform. X, under its new leadership, has become a space were harmful content thrives unchecked. As an organization dedicated to democracy, human rights, and solidarity, we could no longer justify our presence on a platform that undermines these very values.
Archyde: You’ve described X as a “threat to the foundations of society.” Could you elaborate on this?
Dr. Nielsen: Absolutely.Social media platforms like X have become central to public discourse, yet they often evade accountability for the content they host. The lack of moderation and ethical boundaries has created an environment where misinformation spreads rapidly, and marginalized voices are drowned out by hate. This isn’t just a technical issue—it’s a moral one.Platforms must recognize their role in shaping society and act responsibly.
Transitioning to Bluesky
Archyde: What attracted 11.11.11 to Bluesky as an alternative platform?
Dr. Nielsen: Bluesky represents a fresh approach to social media. It’s built on principles of decentralization and user control,which align more closely with our values. While it’s still in its early stages, we believe it offers a safer, more clear space for meaningful dialog. It’s a risk, but one we’re willing to take to support ethical innovation in the digital sphere.
Calling for Collective Action
Archyde: You’ve urged other organizations and leaders to leave X as well. Why is this collective action crucial?
Dr. Nielsen: Change happens when we act together. By leaving X en masse, we’re sending a clear message that unethical practices won’t be tolerated. It’s a call for platforms to prioritize integrity over profit. We’re already seeing ripple effects, with more organizations reevaluating their presence on X. Collective action amplifies our impact and holds these platforms accountable.
Archyde: What does this move signal for the future of social media engagement by civil society groups?
Dr. Nielsen: I believe we’re at a turning point. Organizations are increasingly demanding more from the platforms they use—not just in terms of reach, but in ethical standards. This could lead to a more fragmented digital landscape, but also one that’s more intentional and values-driven. It’s an opportunity to rethink how we engage online and ensure that technology serves humanity, not the other way around.
Thought-Provoking Question
Archyde: As we wrap up, what’s one question you’d like our readers to reflect on?
Dr. Nielsen: I’d ask this: If social media platforms are shaping the future of our society, what kind of future do we want to create? It’s a question that everyone—users, organizations, and platforms—needs to grapple with. I encourage your readers to share their thoughts and join the conversation.
what are your thoughts on the role of social media in shaping society? Share your insights in the comments below.
