Combating Hate Speech in Iraq

Larsa Organization conducted a workshop titled “Combat Hate Speech,” in cooperation with Masarat for Cultural and Media Development, and sponsored by Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung of Germany.

Hate speech is fueling hate crimes and violence towards minorities and marginalized groups. It challenges the cohesion of any society, the protection of human rights, and the rule of law. Therefore, combating hate speech should serve to protect all individuals and groups rather than particular beliefs, ideologies, or religions.

The workshop highlighted the requirements of effective confrontation of hate speech, including the recognition of the importance of freedom of expression, tolerance, and respect for equal dignity. Also, the involvement and commitment of a wide range of private and civil society actors, in addition to public ones, is necessary.

Twenty participants from different religious traditions and ethnic groups were trained on how to observe, monitor, and analyze hate speech in Iraq. They were equipped with techniques and knowledge that will help in countering misinformation, negative stereotyping, and stigmatization in media.