Together with 15 other foundations, we are expanding our digital communications by establishing a presence on the social network Mastodon. Through the new server »stiftungen.social – A Democratic Instance«, we aim to broaden our social media presence and become less dependent on large advertising-driven platforms.

»stiftungen.social« is part of the decentralised Mastodon network, which is built on European open-source technology and already has around 15 million users worldwide. Unlike traditional platforms, Mastodon does not rely on central algorithmic control: content is displayed chronologically, without algorithmic prioritisation or ranking. This makes it easier to understand why certain content is visible and enables more direct interaction between users. As a result, it creates new opportunities for exchange and dialogue beyond the reach-driven dynamics that often favour emotionally charged content and contribute to the spread of hate and disinformation.

The server was initiated by several major foundations and developed in collaboration with  »Save Social – Networks For Democracy«, a non-profit organisation. Earlier this year, Save Social launched the »Digital Independence Day«, an alliance that encourages people to switch to alternative platforms on the first Sunday of every month. The Schöpflin Foundation has joined this initiative.