Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – In an effort to address and mitigate the prevalence of hate speech, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), with support from UNESCO, has conducted and validated a comprehensive research study. The study, focusing on the spread of hate speech through a rights-based approach, aims to tackle the issue which has been a growing concern in the country.

The research highlights the disturbing presence of hate speech across various platforms, including traditional and social media. It categorizes the hate speech into several types: political, religious, ethnic, gender-based, and against sexual orientation. This growing menace was the focus of a validation workshop on Wednesday, July 3, 2024, where key findings, challenges, and recommendations were presented.

In his opening remarks, NHRC Chairperson Emmanuel Daniel Joof emphasized the alarming rise of hate speech in media, particularly on social media. He stressed the lack of an effective monitoring system as a significant issue, noting that hate speech threatens peace and security both locally and globally.

“Hate speech is indeed a menace, threatening the very fabric of tolerance, inclusion, and diversity that our human rights norms and principles are built upon,” Joof stated. He warned that unchecked hate speech could undermine social cohesion, erode shared values, and potentially lead to violence, destabilizing peace and sustainable development efforts.

Joof highlighted the NHRC’s ongoing efforts to monitor and counter hate speech through media scans, press releases, and stakeholder engagements. However, he acknowledged that these efforts must be strengthened due to capacity gaps, insufficient data, and the complex nature of addressing hate speech effectively.

He called for enhanced capacities and competencies among national actors such as the NHRC, the Independent Electoral Commission, the Gambia Press Union, WANEP, the National Council for Civic Education, and the Inter-Party Commission to respond effectively to hate speech.

Michel Kenmoe, Head of Communications and Information Sector at UNESCO, reiterated the importance of this initiative. He stated that it aligns with national priorities and the United Nations’ strategy and action plan on hate speech. Kenmoe explained that hate speech undermines social cohesion and democratic processes, posing a significant threat to peace.

The UN strategy, he revealed, aims to address the root causes of hate speech and to secure appropriate and adequate funding to mitigate its impact. Kenmoe urged both state and non-state actors to take shared responsibility, engage in proactive measures, and empower citizens to resist hate speech.

This collaborative effort between the NHRC and UNESCO marks a significant step towards curbing hate speech in The Gambia, promoting peace, stability, and the protection of human rights for all.