The Public Assistance of the Hospitals of Marseille Withdraws from Social Network X Due to Inadequate Moderation
On December 23, the Public Assistance of the Hospitals of Marseille (AP-HM) officially announced its withdrawal from social network X due to insufficient moderation on the platform. This decision marks a significant turning point for the health institution, which mentions an editorial line perceived as incompatible with its core values of solidarity, humanity, and tolerance. In a context where other media and institutions are also leaving X, the AP-HM highlights growing concerns regarding the spread of harmful content and misinformation.
A Decision Motivated by Ethical and Safety Factors
The AP-HM emphasizes that its choice to withdraw from this social network results from both a hostile environment and a growing distrust of the platform. Indeed, the hospital structure has expressed that the lack of moderation has become detrimental, allowing the spread of fake news and violent content. This poses a threat not only to users but also to hospital staff who could face harassment from often anonymous accounts.
The Context of User Disengagement from X
The withdrawal of the AP-HM is part of a broader trend of user disengagement from X, a phenomenon initiated with Donald Trump’s return to the presidency of the United States. This change in leadership of the social network, now directed by Elon Musk, has led to numerous user departures, including major personalities such as Gigi Hadid and Whoopi Goldberg. Many of them point to a rise in hate and toxic content on the platform, corroborating the AP-HM’s concerns about the impact of this polluted atmosphere.
An Editorial Line in Contradiction with AP-HM Values
In their communication, AP-HM officials specifically mentioned that the editorial line of X has strayed from the values that are dear to them. As a public health institution, the AP-HM must promote a discourse based on humanism and solidarity. According to them, X no longer aligns with this principle, due to its inability to contain the spread of discourse inciting division and violence.
Communication Alternatives and Digital Future
To ensure its visibility and maintain communication with the public, the AP-HM plans to redirect its efforts towards other platforms such as LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, Bluesky, and Threads. These choices highlight a desire to leave an environment deemed unsafe in favor of channels capable of ensuring healthy and respectful discussion. By opting for these new platforms, the AP-HM aims to regain a communication approach that is more in line with its institutional values.
A Call for Reflection on Moderation on Social Networks
This withdrawal of the AP-HM raises key questions about the responsibility of social networks in moderating the content circulated on them. At a time when misinformation and online harassment are on the rise, it becomes essential to consider how to ensure a communication framework that respects the values of humanity and solidarity, both for individuals and for institutions. The case of the AP-HM could thus serve as a starting point for a broader reflection on the need for increased regulation of these platforms to make them safe spaces for all.
