Commissioner Maria Stylianou-Lottidi addresses International Day for Countering Hate Speech

On the occasion of the International Day for Countering Hate Speech, Commissioner for Administration and Human Rights Protection, Maria Stylianou-Lottidi, stated that addressing hate speech is a prerequisite for maintaining democracy. She emphasized that such rhetoric is not merely a form of prejudice but a direct threat to social cohesion and human rights. Stylianou-Lottidi highlighted that the phenomenon is increasing globally, exacerbated by digital technologies, artificial intelligence, and content promotion algorithms. According to her, targeting individuals based on origin, religion, gender, sexual orientation, disability, or identity erodes democratic foundations. She echoed UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, warning that unchecked hate speech can lead to severe human rights violations and hate crimes. The Commissioner noted that while digital platforms facilitate the spread of hate, they also require regulation to protect fundamental values. No specific legislative actions were announced, but the statement serves as a formal public stance on the necessity of addressing digital hate speech. She stressed that regulating hate speech should be viewed as a safeguard for democratic culture rather than a restriction of freedoms.