Hate Speech: A Crime?

    The evolution of the internet has paved the way for many advancements in communication among people all over the world. But this advancement also has a dark side, a side on which people from behind screens belittle and isolate certain individuals and groups.

    But what is Hate Speech? Social problems of racism, bullying and xenophobia have been something that has existed for many years. According to Oxford Languages hate speech can be defined as, ‘abusive or threatening speech or writing that expresses prejudice against a particular group, especially on the basis of race, religion, or sexual orientation.’ Evidence of hate speech causation is not determined. Ideas of prejudice or even mere jealousy can be the motivation. The cause and effect are multiple. In Jeremy Waldron’s book, The Harm in Hate Speech, it is not always clear whether he argues that hate speech causes harm or whether it constitutes harm. This article concludes that the best understanding of Waldron’s thesis is that hate speech often causes harm. According to him Hate speech undermines the sense of security we deserve to feel. The idea that we will not be judged based on our race, sex, religion and/or other vulnerable groups. Hate speech also injures social standing and an individual's dignity to co-exist with others. Hate speech not only affects individuals but a collective social threat to democracies and other political groups.

    In an ideal society individuals have the freedom to say what they want. But living in societies with such diversity it is our duty to be sensitive to others needs and identity. Even if you experience an extreme dislike to another group, it is not right to openly act on it. Gate-keeping to some extent prevents the colliding of different segments of society. Online hate speech has been linked to a global increase in violence towards various ethnic groups and minorities. Below I have the Percentage of teenagers in the United States who have encountered hate speech on social media platforms as of April 2018, by type :

    In India, lynch mobs and other types of communal violence, in many cases originating with rumors on WhatsApp groups, have been on the rise since the Hindu-nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) came to power in 2014.

    Almost 9 out of 10 people agree that victims of hate crime need to be provided with appropriate support services and made aware of their rights. A few things that can be practiced are:

    Education on Media Ethics - This stems from an understanding to educate people of the appropriate use of a particular platform. Thereby leading to a peaceful environment for many. Encouraging victims and witnesses to report such activity - The fear of being publicly shamed and lack of knowledge shades such activities. Regulation of Social Media - Essential to ensure freedom of speech but not follow through to unacceptable behavior.

    It is also essential for police and other online authorities to take hate crime more seriously. Studies show that most often people don’t approach them as they think appropriate action won't be taken and their reports will be dismissed.

    United Nations Strategy and Plan of action on Hate Speech

    Tackling hate speech is also crucial to deepen progress across the United Nations agenda by helping to prevent armed conflict, atrocity crimes and terrorism, end violence against women and other serious violations of human rights, and promote peaceful, inclusive and just societies. Apple CEO Tim Cook on the need for values and justice at his commencement speech in George Washington University, “It’s about finding your values, and committing to them. It’s about finding your North Star. It’s about making choices. Some are easy. Some are hard. And some will make you question everything.”

    Rosanna Paul
    Rosanna Paul

    My name is Rosanna Paul. I like to think of myself as someone who tries to live in the moment. I love dancing, singing, going on hikes and other adventures.