On December 19, 2024, Paris-Saclay University decided to leave the social network X, formerly known as Twitter. This announcement marks an important turning point in the institution’s communication, which is moving away from an increasingly controversial platform. This decision is framed within a context of deep concerns regarding the values and quality of interactions on social networks.
A demanding context
In recent months, several higher education institutions, as well as media and political figures, have begun to reconsider their presence on the X network. This global movement is motivated by a number of excesses observed on the platform, notably an increase in hate speech and the spread of misinformation. Paris-Saclay University, which brings together more than 40,000 students and 9,000 researchers, deemed that these issues were incompatible with its educational mission and fundamental values.
A question of values
The statement published by the university emphasizes that the X network “violates in several respects a number of the fundamental values we uphold, such as tolerance, humanism, as well as scientific and academic integrity.” These values are at the heart of the institution’s educational mission, and its withdrawal is a way to distance itself from a platform perceived as detrimental to intellectual exchange. Indeed, the evolution of X towards more lax content moderation has raised concerns among its community members.
Towards better moderation
The decision to leave X is also part of a desire to promote more respectful and inclusive digital environments. Paris-Saclay University has noted that the platform was moving away from good European practices in combating online misinformation. This has had the effect of encouraging the normalization of intolerant and discriminatory discourse, which contradicts the spirit of a place of learning and research. The pursuit of healthy and constructive communication thus prevailed in this decision.
Migration to other social networks
Following this announcement, Paris-Saclay University encouraged its community to follow its activities on other platforms such as LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook, as well as on Bluesky, which presents itself as an alternative to X. This migration symbolizes a desire to build a digital ecosystem more in line with the university’s values. By emphasizing networks that foster positive interactions, the university aims to maintain open and respectful communication.
A new digital commitment
With this transition, Paris-Saclay University affirms its commitment to developing a digital presence that truly serves its academic interests and those of its community. The possibility of finding its news on platforms deemed more appropriate reflects an awareness of the issues related to communication in an increasingly digitized world. The promotion of its YouTube channel and website to disseminate educational content illustrates this reorientation towards healthier channels.
The departure of Paris-Saclay University from the X social network is not merely a withdrawal, but rather an affirmation of its institutional values in the face of a troubling evolution of social networks. Rich in academic traditions, the institution thus intends to preserve a space for dialogue that reflects its fundamental principles. The search for a more respectful and moderated virtual environment constitutes the heart of this approach, while paving the way for a new era of communication for the university.
