reducing the legal costs of lawsuits. The existence of a Centre against online hate was
raised, offering free counselling for victims and witnesses of online hate.
-
While states remain primary duty bearers, all relevant actors must contribute to address
the challenges and combat hate speech, including the tech industry and in particular
social media platforms. A Tech Ambassador responsible for engaging with tech
companies in a constructive dialogue has been established.
-
Importance of adopting measures to address racial and ethnic stereotypes, particularly
regarding minorities within minorities, who are in a particularly vulnerable position, as
for example sexual and gender minorities with an immigrant background. An initiative
within the Ministry of Justice seeks to develop procedures for the collection of
information for local cooperation. Education on hate crime and hate speech will be
provided to local politicians and minority groups. In 2021, the Freedom Online Coalition
will among other priorities combat disinformation and online hate speech.
-
The “No Hate Speech Movement” campaign combats hate speech against migrants,
women and young people among others. The “Movement Against Hate Speech” is an
initiative that seeks to counter hate speech online against historically discriminated
groups, creating inclusive narratives that invite to dialogue. The document “Myths and
realities of the Caravan of Migrants and refugees” counters prejudices against people on
the move.
-
The expression of conflicts between different groups within and across societies
requires a complex balancing act of protecting and promoting fundamental rights and
principles including freedom of expression and the defense of human dignity.
-
Intergovernmental organisations, States, internet companies and social media platforms
have a duty to create a safe space for human rights activists, particularly in countries
with discriminatory policies towards minorities.
Item 5: Towards a safer space for minorities: positive initiatives to address online hate
speech: the role of national human rights institutions, human rights organizations, civil
society and other stakeholders
The Chair of the Forum noted that hate speech against minorities on social media often
occurs within a larger context, including the propagation of fake news, misinformation and
disinformation, and it may be used to serve certain political and/or ideological goals and
interests. She mentioned this can contribute to a climate of fear among minority communities,
as it may create or contribute to growing racism, intolerance and discrimination, undermining
the respect of human dignity and the protection of the human rights of minorities. Therefore, it
is often necessary to focus on the role of influencers and leaders, including at international,
18