In November, we conducted 5 workshops for elementary and high school students on recognizing and preventing hate speech online.
Some of the conclusions drawn from the workshops include:
Preventing hate speech requires a combination of approaches at various levels, including legislative, educational, media, and societal measures. Key elements that can contribute to preventing hate speech:
Education on tolerance and diversity: Incorporating programs on tolerance, diversity, and human rights respect into the educational system can help shape positive attitudes towards different groups of people. Children and young people educated about diversity are more likely to develop empathy and respect towards others.
Media literacy: Promoting media literacy can help individuals critically assess the information they consume through media. Understanding how media shape perceptions and recognizing manipulation can reduce sensitivity to the spread of hate speech.
Strengthening legal measures: Many countries have laws regulating hate speech. Strengthening and enforcing these laws can create a legal framework that discourages the expression of discriminatory attitudes and behaviors.
Active monitoring of online spaces: The ubiquity of the internet underscores the importance of monitoring and regulating hate speech on online platforms. These platforms have a responsibility to remove content that incites hatred and violence.
Social collaboration: Preventing hate speech requires collaboration across all sectors of society, including government, civil society, media, educational institutions, and individuals. Collective action to foster a society that values diversity can have long-term positive effects on reducing hate speech.
👉 We thank the hosts and children for their attention to this important topic.
👉 The Citizens’ Association “NEŠTO VIŠE” is implementing a project titled “Enhancing peace, security, mental health, and equality through the analysis of hate speech in the media in Bosnia and Herzegovina and reducing its occurrence and impact through workshops and advocacy campaigns.”
👉 The project is supported by the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives – Bosnia and Herzegovina.
👉 We are grateful for Canada’s contribution to this project through the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives.
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