hate speech reinforces discrimination and stigma and often targets women, refugees and migrants, and minorities. If left unchecked, it can even harm peace and development, as it forms the basis for conflict and tension, and widespread human rights violations.
To counter the rising tide of hatred, the United Nations is marking International Day Against Hate Speech by calling people working together to build a more civilized and respectful worldand to take effective action to put an end to this toxic and destructive phenomenon.
Feedback must protect freedom of speech
UN Secretary General António Guterres But also warn that Misleading and ambiguous responses to hate speech – including total bans and internet shutdowns – can also violate human rights by restricting freedom of speech and expression.
Similarly, the United Nations’ top human rights official, Volker Türk, says that the dissemination of hate speech laws is growing. abuses against journalists and human rights defenders To be almost as contagious as hate speech itself.
In his message on This Day, he emphasized that broad laws – allowing States to censor speech they find uncomfortable and threatening or detaining those who question Government policies government or criticize officials – violates rights and jeopardizes essential public debates.
“Instead of criminalizing protected speech, we need States and companies to take urgent steps to address inciting hatred and violence,” said Mr. Türk.
‘Voice amplification overcomes hate’
But we are far from powerless in the face of hate speech, Guterres said, noting that “We can and must raise awareness of its dangersand endeavor to prevent and end it in all its forms.”
He cited the United Nations Hate Speech Strategy and Action Plan is the Organization’s comprehensive framework for addressing the causes and effects of hate speech, and noting that its offices and groups worldwide are confronting hate speech by implement local action plans, based on this strategy.
“The United Nations is advising governments, technology companies and other organizations on a Voluntary Code of Conduct for Information integrity on digital platformsaim at reduce the spread of misinformation and misinformation and hate speech, and protect freedom of expressionhe added.
Mr. Türk, the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, called for a range of actions – from education initiatives and investments in digital literacy programs to listening to those who are most effective. hate speech and force companies to fulfill their human rights obligations.
“More needs to be done to deal with it too influencers – officials and influencers whose voices have a profound impact and their examples have inspired thousands of others,” said Türk. “We have to build networks and amplify voices that can overcome hate.”
