‘The most effective press watchdog’: Owen Jones, Arwa Mahdawi and more on how Twitter changed journalism

Guardian writers look back at the platform's triumphs and pitfalls as the service faces an uncertain future

With Twitter in turmoil under its new owner, Elon Musk, many users are taking a moment to assess the legacy of the social media platform. Launched in 2006, the service has become an integral part of journalism, revolutionizing the spread of information, expanding access to sources, and elevating voices that previously went unheard. It has also, of course, become known for toxic discourse, misinformation and online abuse.

As questions mount over Twitter's future, four Guardian writers reflect on their experiences - personal and professional - with the platform.