In the digital world, hate speech can be conveyed not only through words, but also via images, music, and even symbols. Underpinned by a rhetoric that perpetuates stigmatisation and dehumanisation, hate speech and misinformation threaten social stability and peace, creating an environment conducive to violent extremism. Over the last years, UNDP Regional Hub for Asia and the Pacific has undertaken diverse initiatives against hate speech. 

UNDP successfully trained over 47 talented young creators to produce over 212 videos challenging hateful messages to create a positive impact, reaching 30 million views. In 2022, UNDP’s partnership with Tik Tok, for the “Creators Forward” programme, collectively representing over 25 million followers, has empowered 19 youth influencers to use their strengthened digital skills and creative thinking to produce campaigns that engage their community on countering cyberbullying, celebrating cultural diversity, and advocating for global empathy. Lastly, UNDP Asia-Pacific, in partnership with the NGO, produced a Digital Eco-System Mapping which highlighted potential counter-narratives that will guide new campaigns and help identifying drivers of hate speech. The mapping also found a clear need for enhanced ‘digital citizenship’ skills among youth in South-East Asia: skills that can enable individuals to fully participate in their communities, be more self-critical of the content their post and make smart choices online and in life and address digital violence against women.