European Federation of Journalists Exits X, Citing Disinformation and Erosion of Journalistic Values

Brussels, Belgium – June 23, 2025 – The European Federation of Journalists (EFJ), representing over 300,000 journalists across Europe, has officially announced its decision to cease all posting activities on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter). The move, which took effect on January 20, 2025, aligns with growing concerns within the journalistic community about the platform’s transformation under Elon Musk’s ownership.

In a strong statement, the EFJ articulated that it can “no longer ethically participate in a social network that its owner has transformed into a machine of disinformation and propaganda.” This significant step underscores the deep ethical and professional misalignment the federation perceives between its core values and the current trajectory of X.

The EFJ cited several key reasons for its departure:

* Proliferation of Misinformation and Propaganda: The federation highlighted X’s evolution into a primary conduit for conspiracy theories, racism, far-right ideologies, and misogynistic rhetoric. They argue that the platform’s algorithms and content moderation policies, or lack thereof, actively facilitate the spread of harmful narratives.

* Erosion of Press Freedom and Media Pluralism: The EFJ strongly criticized X’s editorial direction under Musk, asserting that it contradicts fundamental journalistic principles such as press freedom and media pluralism. They expressed concern that the platform no longer serves the public interest but rather the “particular ideological and financial interests of its owner and his political allies.”

* Hostility Towards Journalists: The EFJ pointed to Musk’s vocal stance and actions, which they interpret as proclaiming “the death of the media and therefore of journalists,” as a direct challenge to the profession’s integrity and a reason they can no longer contribute to the platform.

* Downranking of News Links and End of Free Verification: Specific actions taken by X, such as downranking legitimate news links and ending free verification for journalists and news organizations, were cited as further evidence of the platform’s disinterest in supporting credible journalism.

EFJ President Maja Sever emphasized the federation’s unwavering commitment to humanist values, the fight against all forms of hatred and discrimination, and the pursuit of accurate information. General Secretary Ricardo Gutiérrez added that the “editorial evolution of X, since its acquisition by Elon Musk, is simply in contradiction with our humanist values, our commitment to press freedom and media pluralism, and our fight against all forms of hatred and discrimination.”

The EFJ has urged its member organizations and other entities dedicated to freedom of expression to explore and migrate to alternative platforms that uphold ethical standards and genuinely support media pluralism. This decision by such a significant body of journalists is expected to intensify the ongoing debate surrounding the role and responsibility of social media platforms in fostering a healthy information ecosystem.