The virtual landscape has evolved in scope and complexity. Across Africa, social media has emerged as a pivotal platform for journalism and information-sharing. Today, more than 400 million people use social media, and 600 million people have access to the internet in Africa[1]. The digital space has become an essential platform for individuals to express their opinions, share ideas, and connect with others across the globe. While this offers opportunities for connection, innovation, and the inclusion of marginalized groups, it has also provided a space that gives hate speech a much larger audience online. The recent development of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the associated mis/disinformation as well as deep fakes, has added to the complexity of the issue. 

The Role of Journalists, Peacebuilders, and Civil Society Organizations

Media practitioners have an immense influence on public perception, shaping narratives and attitudes. Discriminatory views against marginalized groups, including women and ethnic minorities, published by the media could, for example, fuel harassment and intolerance, which may drive conflict and violent extremism. Similarly, local peacebuilders and Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) play a vital role in fostering social cohesion and preventing conflict.  On this year’s International Day for Countering Hate Speech, we are reminded that the fight against hate speech is a collective responsibility and requires a human-centered approach.

UNDP’s Efforts in Countering Hate Speech and Preventing Extremism

Through the Atlantic Corridor project, UNDP has worked with partners in the Gulf of Guinea countries (Benin, Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, Togo) and Burkina Faso to prevent violent extremism and counter hate speech, while promoting the empowerment and the inclusion of vulnerable groups, including women and girls. 

In Ghana, UNDP has worked with media practitioners and peacebuilders to raise awareness on the risks associated with the spread of hate speech, misinformation, and disinformation. In collaboration with the Media Foundation for West Africa, UNDP has organized trainings with journalists and bloggers from Northern Ghana in the lead up to the 2024 elections. These sessions focused on fact-checking and conflict-sensitive reporting to ensure responsible journalism. One such journalist, Kweku Asante, a young journalist and press freedom advocate has welcomed UNDP’s role in supporting independent, conflict-sensitive journalism.