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The médialab joins Bluesky and Mastodon

In the complex context of Twitter/X's profound evolution in recent years, the médialab will establish its presence on Bluesky and Mastodon, two open and expanding platforms, starting in January 2025.

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In the wake of profound changes on Twitter/X in recent years, the médialab is establishing a presence on Bluesky and Mastodon starting January 2025. These two open and expanding platforms better align with the lab's philosophy: inclusive governance and an open technological approach (free software and open APIs).

Why these platforms?

  • An audience aligned with our topics: Bluesky and Mastodon attract a growing community of researchers, journalists, and academics seeking social networks more conducive to the dissemination of high-quality scientific information ;
  • New sharing communities: These platforms’ unique features, such as distinct algorithmic models and tools like Bluesky’s starter packs, offer new opportunities for knowledge sharing within academic and other communities ;
  • New fields of study: The open-source nature and open APIs of these networks pave the way for future analyses of digital interactions, building on prior research conducted at the médialab.

Social networks in transformation

This decision comes at a pivotal moment in the transformation of the digital landscape. Less than a year ago, Annina Claesson, a PhD candidate at the médialab, highlighted the major challenges brought about by Elon Musk's acquisition of Twitter. She pointed to increasing tensions surrounding the platform’s use, especially within the scientific community, citing a Nature survey published in February 2024: "Half of the scientists surveyed reported reducing their time on X, and 7% had deleted their profiles. Musk’s stricter conditions for accessing the platform’s API—once a goldmine for social media researchers—have forced academics to seek alternatives for data collection and scientific networking."

Beyond these limitations on using Twitter for scientific work, recent developments on X/Twitter (profound changes in moderation rules, arbitrary promotion of certain users) and its owner’s political positioning (involvement in U.S. politics and interference in international diplomacy) underscore the urgency of repositioning on more neutral platforms.

By establishing itself on Bluesky and Mastodon, the médialab strengthens its ability to showcase its work and disseminate its research while committing to more ethical digital environments.