In its report “Combating hate speech and hate crime in the EU,” the organisation pointed out that hate-related behaviours had of late been on the rise.
Some 63% of the surveyed claim they experienced harassment on social media platforms, writes the report.
Yet, it’s not only girls that face abuse, but also people with disabilities fall prey to hate speech. A study has shown that 38% of those challenged with disabilities were affected by verbal abuse online.
Hate is rampant on the Internet, where people feel no barriers. 'Users, including political figures, tend to express their thoughts without reserve,' the reports reads.
Other factors contributing to the spread of hate speech are believed to include economic uncertainty, dissemination of conspiracy theories, and wider access to the web.
Experts have opined that though all member states deem incitement to hatred a criminal offence, the EU does not have the powers to penalise hate speech and hate crimes, beyond the 2008 framework, which now appears to be insufficient.
(pjm)
Source: PAP