The Rise of Racism Online and Its Links to Elon Musk’s X

In recent years, the internet has witnessed a sharp uptick in online hate speech, particularly racist rhetoric, that has seeped into mainstream platforms. One of the most notable flashpoints in this shift has been the transformation of Twitter into X under the ownership of billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk.

A Platform in Transition

When Elon Musk acquired Twitter in October 2022, he promised to restore "free speech" and eliminate what he considered excessive censorship. Musk's approach involved dramatically reducing content moderation staff, reinstating previously banned accounts (including those removed for hate speech or misinformation), and altering verification systems. Critics argue that this opened the floodgates for extremist voices.

Quantifiable Rise in Hate Speech

Independent watchdogs and researchers quickly began tracking the impact of Musk’s policy changes. The Center for Countering Digital Hate (CCDH), the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), and the Institute for Strategic Dialogue (ISD) all reported a substantial increase in hate speech on the platform following the takeover. According to a 2023 report by CCDH:

• Tweets using the N-word surged by over 200% in the immediate aftermath of the acquisition.

• Slurs against transgender people increased by over 50%.

• Anti-Semitic content rose significantly, often boosted by algorithmic recommendations.

  
  

X disputed many of these findings, claiming the data was taken out of context or did not reflect broader platform activity. However, Musk himself at times amplified controversial or conspiratorial voices, further complicating the platform's credibility as a neutral public square.

The "Free Speech" Dilemma

Musk's vision of X as a "free speech absolutist" platform has drawn both praise and condemnation. Supporters argue that it restores balance and prevents political bias. Detractors point out that unmoderated spaces quickly become breeding grounds for hate, harassment, and disinformation—particularly against marginalized communities.

Experts warn that the erosion of content moderation under the banner of free speech risks normalizing toxic behavior. Without clear enforcement of hate speech policies, emboldened users may feel justified in targeting others based on race, religion, or ethnicity.

Real-World Consequences

The implications of rising online racism are not confined to digital spaces. Studies have shown that online hate speech can correlate with real-world violence, harassment, and radicalization. Platforms like X wield immense influence in shaping public discourse, making their governance decisions a matter of societal concern.

Furthermore, advertisers have pulled back from X due to the reputational risk of being associated with hate-filled content. Major brands, including Apple and Disney, temporarily paused advertising campaigns amid concerns about content adjacency.

Regulatory and Legal Challenges

Governments are taking notice. The European Union has warned X about failing to comply with its Digital Services Act (DSA), which mandates the removal of illegal hate speech within 24 hours. In countries like Germany and France, where hate speech laws are stricter, X faces legal scrutiny and potential fines.

In the U.S., where the First Amendment offers stronger protections for speech, policymakers are still grappling with how to hold tech platforms accountable without infringing on constitutional rights.

Conclusion: A Fork in the Road

As X continues to evolve under Musk's leadership, it represents a broader crossroads in tech governance: Can platforms balance free expression with the responsibility to protect users from harm? Or will deregulation enable the spread of racism and other forms of bigotry under the guise of open discourse?

The answer may shape not just the future of X, but the tone of the internet itself.