16 foundations are setting an example for digital sovereignty
To mark World Press Freedom Day, 16 German foundations are jointly launching the Mastodon server “stiftungen.social”.
The goal is to strengthen an independent and open information infrastructure – one that operates outside the logic of large platforms.
Launch of the initiative
The participating foundations will post their first contributions under #neuhier on Mastodon throughout the day. Follow this link to find all accounts on “stiftungen.social”.
Click here for the Joachim Herz Foundation’s account – follow us now! https://stiftungen.social/@joachimherzstiftung
Why are we doing this?
The digital public sphere is under increasing pressure: hate, disinformation, and algorithmically distorted debates dominate major social networks. At the same time, many platforms evade their responsibilities and regulation.
With “stiftungen.social,” the participating foundations are therefore pursuing a so-called “Plus 1 strategy”: They are expanding their communication channels to include an independent, European open-source alternative.
The group of initiators puts it this way: “With ‘stiftungen.social,’ we are sending a clear signal in favor of independent social networks and strengthening new independent digital spaces.”
Who is involved?
The server was initiated by six foundations:
- Rudolf Augstein Foundation
- Robert Bosch Foundation
- Hertie Foundation
- Joachim Herz Foundation
- Volkswagen Foundation
- ZEIT BUCERIUS Foundation
Additional foundations are joining the initiative at its launch: Allianz Foundation, Bertelsmann Foundation, German National Foundation, Karg Foundation, Körber Foundation, Michael Otto Foundation, Lotto Sport Foundation, Schöpflin Foundation, taz Panther Foundation, and Carl Zeiss Foundation.
The project was implemented in collaboration with the non-profit organization Save Social – Networks For Democracy.
What is the motivation behind this collaboration among the foundations?
The new server is more than just an additional communication channel. It embodies the commitment to actively shape the digital public sphere—transparently, independently, and based on values. “stiftungen.social” aims to create a trustworthy sender structure, enable direct dialogue with the community, and serve as an open platform for other foundations committed to democracy.
Mastodon itself also welcomes the initiative. Director Felix Hlatky emphasizes the importance of independent infrastructures for democratic societies.
Background: What is Mastodon?
Mastodon is a decentralized social network with around 15 million users worldwide. Unlike traditional platforms, it is based on many independent, interconnected servers.
This structure enables self-determined communication without central control by algorithms—thereby strengthening digital sovereignty and diversity online.