On 18 June, the world marks the International Day for Countering Hate Speech, a moment to reflect on the damage caused by hate-fuelled language and to renew our commitment to dignity, inclusion and respectful expression. At Freedom2hear, we recognise this day as a vital reminder of the shared responsibility we all carry in shaping public discourse that is fair, just and safe for everyone.
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The United Nations declared 18 June the International Day for Countering Hate Speech in 2021, in response to the rising levels of hate speech and intolerance across the globe. It followed the launch of the UN Strategy and Plan of Action on Hate Speech in 2019, which was developed to provide a framework for tackling hate speech in a way that respects freedom of expression and human rights.
Hate speech, as defined by the United Nations, includes any kind of communication that attacks or uses discriminatory language with reference to a person, or a group based on religion, ethnicity, nationality, race, colour, descent, gender or other identity factors. While it is not a new phenomenon, the digital age has allowed hate to spread faster and further than ever before, often with devastating consequences.
From inciting violence and promoting division, to silencing marginalised voices and eroding trust in democratic institutions, the impacts of hate speech are profound. This international day calls upon governments, media organisations, educational institutions, and members of the public to stand together against hate in all its forms.
At Freedom2hear, our mission is to protect the fundamental right to be heard especially for those whose voices are most at risk of being drowned out by abuse, prejudice or intimidation. We believe that countering hate speech is not about limiting expression, but about setting clear boundaries that protect dialogue, mutual respect and the well-being of all communities.
As a platform dedicated to freedom of speech and responsible communication, we specialise in emotion-based AI content moderation, technology that understands the emotional tone and context behind digital conversations. This allows us to detect and flag potentially harmful content without restricting free expression, ensuring that online dialogue remains open, respectful and safe.
Our tools are already being used by sports franchises and leagues, publishers and online communities to identify hate speech before it spreads, particularly when it appears in coded language or relies on subtle contextual cues. That’s were our solutions come in: offering real-time, context-aware moderation that helps platforms strike the right balance between safety and freedom of speech.
By providing this level of nuanced moderation, we support digital spaces where people can speak freely without fear of being targeted, silenced or dehumanised.
Countering hate speech requires collective effort. It is not the responsibility of governments or tech platforms alone. We all have a role to play.
Here are several ways individuals, organisations and communities can act:
1. Educate ourselves and others
Understanding the roots and impacts of hate speech is the first step. This includes learning about the historical context of discrimination, recognising coded or implicit forms of hateful language, and helping others to identify these patterns too.
2. Promote respectful dialogue
Online and offline, we must be intentional about the way we communicate. Challenging hateful views should not mean engaging in further hostility. Instead, we can model constructive conversation and create spaces where differences can be expressed without fear or aggression.
3. Support those targeted by hate
When we witness hate speech, it is important not to remain silent. Supporting victims whether by reporting abuse, offering solidarity, or amplifying their voices sends a clear message that hate has no place in our communities.
4. Encourage platforms and institutions to do more
Social media companies and public institutions have a responsibility to develop stronger safeguards and moderation systems to prevent the spread of hate speech. Holding them to account is crucial in ensuring a safer environment for all users.
5. Celebrate diversity and inclusion
Proactively sharing stories, perspectives and content that celebrate cultural, ethnic and social diversity is a powerful way to counter hate. Positive representation helps break down stereotypes and build empathy.
Through our partnerships, Freedom2hear actively supports platforms and organisations that want to build safer digital communities. By providing smart, scalable moderation tools, we empower our clients to uphold free speech while protecting users from harm making it easier to strike the balance between openness and responsibility in today’s complex online landscape.
The International Day for Countering Hate Speech is more than a one-day observance. It is a call to action that reminds us of the importance of daily vigilance and long-term commitment. In a world where digital platforms often act as amplifiers for both kindness and cruelty, we must collectively choose which side we wish to strengthen.
At Freedom2hear, we remain committed to championing free, fair and respectful expression. We continue to support campaigns and conversations that dismantle hate, empower communities, and uphold the fundamental human right to be heard without fear.
Let us use this day not only to reflect, but to act. By choosing understanding over hostility, truth over misinformation, and solidarity over division, we help build a society where every voice counts and none are silenced by hate.
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Freedom2hear acts as your emotionally intelligent content filter, protecting your people from hate.
