Hate speech is spreading ‘faster than ever’, the UN chief warned as global action plans were revealed

Guterres spoke at UN Headquarters in New York at the launch of the Muscat Action Plan – an initiative highlighting the role of traditional leaders and indigenous peoples in promoting peace and strengthening social cohesion.

Hate speech”divides communities, dehumanizes entire groups, and incites bloodshedhe said.

“That was also intentional – and a core component in the guidelines for almost every crime of genocide and atrocity.”

Traditional leaders are very important

Breaking “this outrageous cycle” requires action through education, support for people targeted by abuse, stronger intervention from governments and technology companies, and deeper engagement with traditional leaders and indigenous communities, he said.

These leaders “brought important knowledge of local realities” and earned the respect and trust of their people.

Additionally, their authority and influence can help defuse tensions before they escalate, and their life experiences “make mediation and dispute resolution more likely to be respected, implemented, and sustained.”

Hate speech spreads quickly

The Secretary-General noted that hate speech is spreading “faster than ever”, driven by unregulated platforms and powered by artificial intelligence (AI).

Although states have the primary responsibility to prevent genocide and other atrocity crimes, he emphasized that all of society has a role.

The Muscat Action Plan is the result of a multi-stakeholder process led by the Sultanate of Oman, the United Nations Office for the Prevention of Genocide and the Responsibility to Protect (UNOSAPG), and the Religious and Traditional Peacemakers Network.

The event is co-organized by the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC) that promotes peaceful, inclusive and just societies through intercultural and interreligious dialogue.

“When my country, Oman, decided to present a peace and development plan to the world, it did not write it just in ink,” said Dr. Mohamed bin Said Al Mamari, Minister of Endowments and Religion.

“Oman drafted this document based on decades of human relations and cooperation – and they built these stones one by one, based on experience and coexistence and mutual trust.”

Area for action

The UN chief said the plan was a reminder “that hate speech is a warning sign that violence is about to occur – and is also a catalyst that accelerates violence.” He outlined four areas in which member states can play an important role.

First, they must strengthen the accountability of digital platforms and ensure that user safety is included in the design of online products and services.

Delegates will have the opportunity to address some of these issues first Global Dialogue on AI Governance will take place next month, he added.

Second, countries must strengthen local capacities in prevention and mediation.

Actions taken include training on human rights monitoring and reporting, guidance on non-violent methods for dealing with hate speech and incitement, assistance in line with international standards and local values ​​and traditions, and education that promotes respect for diversity and non-discrimination.

Dialogue, collaboration and inclusion

Third, Member States should support dialogue that builds mutual understanding and social cohesion.

They must also help traditional leaders and indigenous communities counter hate narratives by deconstructing myths, refuting harmful ideologies and rumours, condemning incitement to violence, and encouraging tolerance and coexistence.

Fourth, he called for deeper collaboration among traditional, indigenous and political actors. This includes expanding opportunities for traditional leaders and indigenous communities to mediate local conflicts and developing policy guidance on local mechanisms to counter hate speech and prevent mass atrocity crimes.

Youth, women and religious leaders

The Secretary-General said efforts to prevent hate speech and atrocity crimes must put traditional leaders and indigenous peoples “front and centre” – which includes religious leaders, youth leaders and women leaders.

Meaningful participation of women is critical, she said, gesturing UN Security Council Resolution 1325 (2000) about women, peace and security.

Rights, dignity and freedom of expression

Guterres underlined that states have clear obligations under international law to combat incitement to hatred and promote inclusion, respect for diversity and solidarity.

However, efforts to curb hate speech should not be used to stifle freedom of expression.

“At the same time, freedom of expression should not be an excuse to convey harmful messageshe added.

He expressed his determination to continue moving forward UN Strategy and Action Plan on Hate Speech And Global Principles for Information Integritywhich he describes as a roadmap to a safer and more ethical digital ecosystem.

“Together, we can build the inclusive, just and peaceful society that everyone deserves,” he said.