For years, Danish police have relied on X (formerly Twitter) to share real-time updates on emergencies and incidents. Journalists and media outlets have used X Pro (formerly TweetDeck) to track these updates, ensuring swift and accurate news reporting. However, this long-standing reliance on X may soon come to an end.
René Gyldensten, head of communications for Denmark’s National Police, recently told Dagbladet Børsen that X’s evolving nature—particularly concerns about misinformation and unpredictable algorithm changes—has made it clear that the police need full control over their own communication.
“With misinformation and shifting algorithms, X has developed in a way that shows we, as the police, must own our communication,” Gyldensten stated.
Instead of switching to another social media platform, Danish authorities are exploring independent solutions, drawing inspiration from Norway’s model.
Looking to Norway’s ‘Pressklienten’
Norwegian police have implemented Pressklienten, a secure, closed communication system designed for direct information-sharing between law enforcement and journalists. This ensures that crucial updates reach the media without the risks associated with third-party social networks.
Danish police have been considering alternative platforms for some time. In November, Gyldensten discussed the possibility of moving to Bluesky, a decentralized social media platform. However, after further analysis, authorities concluded that they would rather establish their own system, eliminating the risk of depending on yet another external service that may not align with their long-term needs.
“We are also exploring the possibility of developing an in-house solution, if technically feasible,” Gyldensten added.
Danish Media Already Moving Away from X
Denmark’s major media organizations, including DR, Ritzau, and Journalisten, have already cut ties with X, each citing different reasons. While some left due to declining traffic, others pointed to concerns over content moderation and the platform’s shifting values.
Ritzau, for example, attributed its departure to reduced engagement, while DR pointed out the platform’s lack of effective moderation tools. Journalisten.dk reported that these concerns mirror a global trend, with several international media outlets reconsidering their presence on X.
Controversy Under Elon Musk’s Leadership
X’s transformation under Elon Musk has sparked debate, particularly among journalists. Last week, Journalisten’s editor-in-chief, Christian Lindhardt, announced that the publication would stop posting on X, criticizing the platform’s direction.
“Under Elon Musk, the platform has destroyed itself, becoming a space that directly conflicts with the values we stand for—openness, independent journalism, and democratic discussion based on informed dialogue,” Lindhardt stated.
As Danish police evaluate their next steps, their potential departure from X reflects a broader shift in how institutions and media outlets engage with social media for public communication.
