Over 60 universities and research institutions in Germany have decided to boycott the social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, citing allegations of political interference by Elon Musk, who acquired the platform a few years ago. For more than 13 years, these institutions had relied on the platform to engage with the public, but recent controversies have compelled them to take this drastic step.

The report, published on Saturday by Anadolu Agency, highlights growing concerns over X's role in promoting far-right ideologies, nationalism, and anti-democratic content across Europe. The platform has come under fire for its perceived tolerance of hate speech and misinformation under the guise of free speech, a stance that many argue undermines democratic values.

In a statement released by Germany’s Federal Association of University Communications, the country’s public broadcaster RBB explained, “The conditions for open exchange no longer exist on X. Under the pretext of free speech, the platform has opened its doors to hate, disinformation, and manipulation by influential figures.”

Silke Engel, a spokesperson for Potsdam University, confirmed the institution’s decision to shut down its official X account. Engel elaborated, “We have been closely monitoring X for a long time and have significantly reduced our activity over recent months due to political developments. The platform no longer serves as a space for transparent communication, informed exchanges, or open discussions.”

The boycott is not limited to academic institutions. Two major German labor unions—the Unified Service Sector Union (Verdi) and the Education and Science Union (GEW)—have also announced their withdrawal from the platform after nearly 15 years of engagement. Both unions criticized X as a forum for far-right extremism, hate speech, anti-democratic behavior, and disinformation.

The unions further stated that X appears to be prioritizing behaviors that undermine democratic principles. This perception was exacerbated by Musk’s recent activities on the platform, including posts supporting the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party. Musk has faced allegations of attempting to influence German politics ahead of the country’s elections scheduled for February.

In one controversial post, Musk declared, “The far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) is the only party that can save Germany.” His endorsement sparked outrage and further fueled accusations of political meddling. Additionally, Musk had previously tweeted in German criticizing Chancellor Olaf Scholz following the collapse of his government in November, calling Scholz “foolish.”

Musk’s involvement with the AfD extended to an online discussion on X with party leader Alice Weidel, where he encouraged Germans to vote for the far-right party. “If you are unhappy with the current situation, voting for change is essential. That’s why I strongly recommend supporting the AfD. This is my firm advice, and I believe it to be a logical step,” Musk stated.

The developments have drawn significant international attention. British newspaper The Guardian also announced its decision to boycott X, describing it as “a tool for spreading misinformation.” The platform’s shifting policies and Musk’s overt political affiliations have left many questioning its commitment to fostering unbiased dialogue and upholding democratic values.

As institutions and organizations across Germany and beyond sever ties with X, the move underscores growing concerns over the platform’s transformation under Musk’s leadership and its potential impact on global democratic discourse.