‘Hate speech is poison in the well of society,’ says Guterres

“It is an alarm bell: the louder it rings, the greater the threat of genocide,” he warned.

As part of its core mission to combat hatred, discrimination, racism and inequality, the UN is stepping up efforts to challenge hate speech wherever it arises.

“Hate speech is poison in the well of society. It has paved the way for violence and atrocities during the darkest chapters of human history,” Mr. Guterres added.

Voices of hate

Hate speech often fuels violence and intolerance, with ethnic and religious minorities among the most frequent targets.

While the destructive power of hatred is nothing new, today it is being amplified by modern communication technologies.

Online hate speech has become one of the most prevalent means of spreading divisive narratives, posing a growing threat to peace and security around the world.

#NoToHate

Ahead of the international day, the UN has produced a series of videos aimed at countering hate speech - part of the #NoToHate campaign.

Ahmed Shaheed, Deputy Director of the Essex Human Rights Centre, speaks here about countering Islamophobia:

Rabbi Jill Jacobs, Executive Director of T’ruah: The Rabbinic Call for Human Rights, addresses rising antisemitism:

Artificial Intelligence

This year’s theme sheds light on the nexus between hate speech and artificial intelligence. Building coalitions is the main tool societies can use to reclaim inclusive and safe spaces free of hatred.

While AI tools offer myriad potential opportunities to make positive differences in situations of conflict and insecurity, biased algorithms and digital platforms are also spreading toxic content and creating new spaces for harassment and abuse.

Recognising these immense potential and risks, Member States have recommitted to countering hate speech online.

“Let us commit to using artificial intelligence, not as a tool of hatred, but as a force for good,” said Mr. Guterres.