Key Points
- Germany is reconsidering its presence on X over concerns about polarization driven by algorithms.
- Elon Musk’s endorsement of the far-right AfD party has caused controversy in Berlin.
- The AfD, classified as extremist by German authorities, promotes anti-immigration and anti-Islamic policies.
- The government remains on X because it can reach a broad audience. Germany awaits Brussels’ assessment of X’s legal compliance before elections.
The German government is deliberating whether to maintain its presence on the social media platform X, citing concerns about its algorithms and their potential to foster polarization. A government spokesperson revealed on Friday that this decision is a recurring consideration, underscoring ongoing apprehensions about X’s role in shaping public discourse.
The discussions follow a live conversation hosted on X between Elon Musk and Alice Weidel, the leader of Germany’s far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party. The government spokesperson noted that social media algorithms, including those on X, often prioritize agitation and polarization over calm and balanced discussions. However, for now, the decision has been made to stay on X, recognizing its value in reaching a broad audience.
Musk’s increasingly vocal support for far-right and anti-establishment parties in Europe, including the AfD, has sparked controversy. The AfD, known for its anti-immigration and anti-Islamic stance, has been classified as a right-wing extremist group by German security agencies. Musk’s recent endorsement of the party has raised concerns in Berlin, particularly ahead of Germany’s upcoming federal elections on February 23.
During a live talk on X, Musk reiterated his backing of the AfD, which has drawn criticism from various sectors of German society. In response, numerous German institutions, including unions and universities, have opted to exit the platform in protest. The government, however, denied that its concerns about X were tied to Musk’s involvement in German politics. Instead, officials emphasized the broader issue of whether X complies with legal standards set by Brussels in the lead-up to elections.
As the debate over social media’s influence continues, Germany’s evaluation of its relationship with X reflects broader concerns about the role of technology in fostering polarization and influencing political landscapes.
