Online Hate Speech
The exponential growth of online platforms and of the number of persons using them have led to various major problems in connection with hate content. The ongoing development of information and communication technologies have facilitated the rise in online hate speech.
By offering the possibility of anonymity, digital platforms and social media have given people throughout the world a means to be abusive and to act in ways that have irreversible consequences. There are calls for stricter rules against online hate speech and fake news at national, European and international levels. There is a need for a Europe-wide framework, in particular. The legal arsenal to combat online hate is still far from complete, and highlights the difficulties associated with its application and with respect for other fundamental freedoms, such as freedom of expression.
The designation of the various legitimate stakeholders needed to monitor and regulate online speech is still a major challenge at present.