Navigating the Shifting Social Media Landscape: A Breck Foundation Perspective

As debates over social media regulation intensify, the digital world is witnessing a seismic shift. In the U.S., a proposed TikTok ban has sparked fierce conversations about privacy, data security, and global politics. Amidst these discussions, Mark Zuckerberg’s Meta (formerly Facebook) has been intertwined with U.S. political strategies, and Elon Musk’s acquisition of X (formerly Twitter) symbolises the increasingly blurred lines between social platforms and political influence. The intersection of tech ownership and governance is reshaping how users, including vulnerable young people, experience the internet worldwide.

The TikTok controversy centres on concerns over data harvesting by its parent company, ByteDance, which some U.S. lawmakers argue poses a national security threat. Behind the scenes, figures like Zuckerberg have reportedly lobbied for tougher scrutiny on Chinese platforms—moves that benefit U.S.-based tech giants but also risk amplifying corporate monopolies and reducing user choice. Meanwhile, Musk’s purchase of X introduced controversial changes to moderation policies, raising fresh questions about free speech versus harmful content online.

These U.S.-centric shifts inevitably ripple outwards. Policies and platform dynamics in one country affect global users, influencing trends, algorithms, and user safety measures. In the UK, where the Online Safety Act seeks to regulate harmful content, children’s online safety remains a top priority. The evolution of major platforms—whether driven by political bans or billionaire entrepreneurs—shapes how young users encounter content, making robust, enforceable safeguards more critical than ever.

In response to these upheavals, new platforms have emerged as havens for those seeking alternatives to mainstream social media. Apps like Pixelfed emphasise privacy and ethical sharing, while Bluesky—a decentralised microblogging service backed by former Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey—offers a vision of a user-driven internet. Other platforms like Mastodon prioritise community moderation and distributed control, signalling a potential shift towards more transparent, user-first experiences.

The proliferation of these new apps provides opportunities but also introduces risks. Younger users exploring unfamiliar platforms may face inconsistent safety measures and varied moderation. It underscores the urgency of implementing comprehensive age verification, content monitoring, and educational initiatives aligned with frameworks like the UK’s Online Safety Act.

As these platforms continue to evolve, our collective focus must remain on designing technology that prioritises user well-being, particularly for children and teenagers. Companies must embed safety by design, governments must enforce regulation without stifling innovation, and users must stay informed about the tools and communities they engage with. At Breck Foundation, we’ll continue sharing resources and updates on safe social media usage while advocating for a future where technology empowers rather than endangers.