A/HRC/26/50 reported that the Internet is used by a number of extremist movements and groups, especially far right-wing movements, as the perfect recruitment platform for potential new members, as it enables easy invitations to various online events and meetings without distance constraints. 27. The Special Rapporteur reiterates that the Internet and social media can also be useful tools for preventing the spread of racist ideologies by extremist political parties, groups and movements. In that connection, he welcomes the fact that the mainstream media in some countries have started to recognize the cultural value of diversity and to promote the idea of improving the living and working conditions of members of minorities. He welcomes information received about projects set up at the national level by civil society groups with the support of public authorities, including the creation of social network-based platforms targeting young people and aiming specifically at countering extremism, xenophobia and other forms of intolerance and fostering a democratic culture. 28. In that regard, the Special Rapporteur has addressed the issue of racism and hate speech on the Internet and social media previously, in his 2012 report to the General Assembly (A/67/326), and does so again in his thematic report to current session of the Human Rights Council (A/HRC/28/49). IV. Preventing and countering racism and extremism in sport 29. The Special Rapporteur recalls that there is no place for racism and intolerance in sport. Sport is meant to foster social cohesion, bring different cultures together in a celebration of healthy competition, and overcome the diffidence and contempt that all too often divide countries and communities in the political and social arenas. Racism in sport, manifested by both fans and competitors, is an ongoing concern for the Special Rapporteur. 30. Unfortunately, information has been received about the presence of extremist groups, including neo-Nazis and skinhead groups in sports, particularly football and some other sports. In that regard, the Special Rapporteur is concerned about reported cases of racist symbols and banners displayed during football matches, as well as the shouting of racist slogans and the making of racist gestures on those occasions, often directed at players or supporters of African descent. 31. Such incidents are particularly damaging given the important role that professional athletes play in inspiring young people. The Special Rapporteur recalls that States are bound to comply with the provisions of international human rights law vis-à-vis sporting events. Decades after the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination, athletes and their supporters, like all other individuals, have the right to a secure environment devoid of racism and prejudice. 32. The Special Rapporteur calls on States and all relevant authorities, including sports federations, to deal with the presence of extremist groups, including neo-Nazis, skinhead groups, as well as hooligans at sports events, including football matches. Indeed, in the light of major sports events, such as the 2014 International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) World Cup or the XXII Olympic Winter Games, it is crucial that preventive measures be taken to avoid acts of racial violence, xenophobia, abuse and incitement to racial hatred by extremist individuals or groups. 8