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DW to close select accounts on platform X

DW will close around half of its accounts on the social media platform X as part of its current budget reductions. The decision is linked to savings requirements and broader adjustments to DW’s digital offerings.

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Operating a large number of accounts on X has become more costly under the current conditions. Since 2022, costs for platform‑specific services have increased, including fees for access to interfaces required for performance measurement as well as the designation as an "X Premium Organization" (formerly "X Verified Organization").

In addition, professional account management requires external tools for community management and monitoring, adding further costs. These tools are necessary to ensure reliable editorial oversight, moderation and evaluation. 

Taken together, the increased platform‑specific costs and the resources required for professional operations mean some accounts can no longer be maintained at their previous quality level. 

Editorial considerations

Alongside financial factors, editorial considerations also influenced the decision. The conditions for distributing journalistic content on X have changed noticeably in recent years. Among other things, dealing with disinformation and hate speech, the growing presence of extremist content and limited moderation options have made editorial work on X more challenging.

At the same time, key features for secure, data‑driven distribution are now only available through additional paid programs. This includes reach‑related features and analytics functions that are essential for informed editorial steering.

Account closures by year-end

DW will gradually close the following accounts on X by the end of the year and will no longer provide editorial support for them: @dw_balkan, @dw_brasil, @dw_croatian, @dw_conflictzone, @dw_europe, @dw_greek, @dw_hindi, @dwnews, @dw_politik, @dw_polski, @dw_shqip, @plus90 and @zapovednikshow. The respective communities will be informed in advance and directed to alternative DW digital offerings. 

In countries where access to independent information is restricted, DW will continue to maintain a presence on X, including services aimed at audiences in Iran and Russia. In these cases, DW’s digital presence on X continues to play an important role in providing access to reliable information.

Independently of the measures taken on X, DW remains active on numerous other digital platforms and continues to ensure that its journalistic content is available in a stable and reliable manner. These services are not affected by the current adjustments.