- X (formerly Twitter) allows adult content, including sexualized content, if consensual and labeled.
- Platform acknowledges sexual expression as artistic expression.
- Adult content restricted for children and opt-out adults.
- Move sparks debate on free speech vs. hate speech/misinformation.
Elon Musk’s social media platform, X, formerly known as Twitter, has announced a significant update to its policies, formally allowing adult content on the platform. According to the new guidelines, users will be permitted to share sexualized content, provided it is consensual and clearly labeled.
This policy shift was announced by the company on June 3 via its Safety X handle, stating that users should be able to create and consume material related to sexual themes as long as it is consensually produced and distributed.
The platform acknowledges that sexual expression, whether visual or written, can be a legitimate form of artistic expression. X emphasizes its belief in the autonomy of adults to engage with and create content that reflects their own beliefs, desires, and experiences, including those related to sexuality.
However, the revised policy will restrict adult content for children and adult users who wish not to see sexual content. Users will also be prohibited from sharing content that promotes exploitation, nonconsent, objectification, sexualization, or harm to minors, as well as obscene behaviors.
This move confirms a more accepting stance toward sexual content that existed before Musk acquired Twitter in October 2022. Unlike other social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube, Twitter has never explicitly banned nudity and sexualized content.
Under Musk’s leadership, X has significantly scaled back moderation on the platform, reinstating previously banned accounts, including those of former US President Donald Trump and conspiracy theorist Alex Jones, sparking debate on freedom of speech versus hate speech and misinformation.
