On Sunday, UN Chief Antonio Guterres asserted that hate speech is used to stoke fear and division, often for political gain, and at immense cost to communities and societies.
In his message on the , he explained that hate speech incites violence, exacerbates tensions, and impedes efforts to foster mediation and dialogue. "It is one of the warning signs of genocide and other atrocity crimes."
Guterres continued: "Hate speech is often aimed at vulnerable groups, reinforcing discrimination, stigma and marginalization. Minorities, women, refugees, migrants, and people of diverse sexual orientation and gender identity are frequent targets. Social media platforms can amplify and spread hate speech at lightning speed."
"Misguided and ambiguous responses to hate speech – including blanket bans and internet shutdowns – may also violate human rights by restricting freedom of speech and expression. They may even silence some of those best placed to counter hateful narratives: human rights defenders and journalists," he pointed out .
He also affirmed the need to raise awareness about its dangers, and work to prevent and end it in all its forms, noting that education initiatives, positive speech campaigns, research to understand and address root causes, and efforts to promote inclusion and equal rights all have an important role. Religious, community and business leaders can all play their part.
In the same context, the UN Chief emphasized that the UN is currently consulting governments, technology companies and others on a voluntary Code of Conduct for information integrity on digital platforms, aimed at reducing the spread of mis- and disinformation and hate speech, while protecting freedom of expression.
He concluded his message by calling on the world to renew our efforts to prevent and end this toxic and destructive phenomenon, while promoting inclusive, just and peaceful communities and societies and protecting the rights and dignity of all.
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