On February 6, 2025, the Metropolis of Grand Nancy officially turned its back on the social network X, formerly known as Twitter. This withdrawal is set against a backdrop of disdain for this platform, particularly due to its changes in governance and content policies that no longer align with the community’s values. By regulating its digital presence, the Metropolis underscores its commitment to respectful and informed communication.
An essential communication tool
For many years, the Metropolis of Grand Nancy has successfully mobilized various communication tools to maintain constant contact with its residents and partners. Whether through printed documents, advertising campaigns, or digital content, the community invests to ensure clear and accessible information for all. Its magazine and website play a crucial role in this strategy, as does its presence on social networks.
A presence on X that no longer meets expectations
The Metropolis of Grand Nancy’s presence on the social network X began in 2010. With over 16,000 subscribers, this community was an effective means to share news and interact with citizens. However, since the acquisition of the platform by Elon Musk, several controversial changes have been introduced. Accounts promoting hatred and misinformation have been unblocked, and moderation rules have been weakened, thus altering the very nature of the network.
The necessary disconnection
In the face of this deleterious climate, the Metropolis of Grand Nancy decided to withdraw from this network, asserting that its participation contributed to the visibility of a platform that no longer respects the standards of free public debate. The impact of this decision is extensive, also affecting related accounts, such as those of the Museum of the History of Iron, the Botanical Garden, and Féru des sciences.
Elected officials in agreement with ethical values
During the metropolitan council on February 6, 2025, the elected officials unanimously approved this measure. It seemed essential for them to distance themselves from a platform that threatens the principles of democracy, respect, and objective information. Indeed, the consensus was that the X network no longer allows for exchanges in a spirit of transparency and fairness, and that it generates unnecessary tensions among users.
A signal for other communities
This withdrawal is not an isolated case; it echoes a growing trend among various institutions such as NGOs, companies, and other communities that choose to abandon X in light of its hostile climate. The choice of the Metropolis of Grand Nancy could inspire other actors to reconsider their presence on similar platforms, thus consolidating a movement towards a healthier digital ecosystem.
In a constantly evolving world, it is essential that institutions remain true to their fundamental values. By ending its use of the social network X, the Metropolis of Grand Nancy sends a strong message about the importance of digital responsibility.
