UN: Nigeria's election season sees surge in hate speech

The United Nations Under-Secretary-General and Special Adviser to the Secretary-General on the Prevention of Genocide, Alice Wairimu Nderitu, recently addressed journalists in Abuja, Nigeria, raising concerns about the surge in inflammatory language and hate speech during the country's election season. Nderitu highlighted the alarming impact of hate speech, particularly when amplified by digital technology. She emphasized the importance of countering and addressing hate speech to prevent the escalation of tensions that could lead to violence. Hate speech, when accompanied by discriminatory policies and practices, often results in hate crimes, discrimination, and violence, which can serve as precursors to grave atrocities such as genocide. Nderitu drew parallels to historical atrocities like the Holocaust, the Rwandan genocide, and the Srebrenica massacre, where hate speech and dehumanization were prevalent before violence erupted. She pointed out that hate speech makes targeted groups more vulnerable to violence, exclusion, and discrimination, exacerbating social and economic inequalities and undermining social cohesion. Women are particularly impacted by hate speech, often facing exclusion from political spaces. Moreover, hate speech can polarize communities along identity lines, hindering dialogue and reconciliation. Nderitu also expressed concerns about diaspora blogs and social media platforms that normalize violence through inflammatory content. She stressed the importance of taking action to counter hate speech as a fundamental aspect of preventing atrocities. By addressing divisive language, societies can avoid the escalation of tensions and work towards resilience and inclusivity. Support for victims of hate speech is crucial, and Nderitu underscored the significance of holding individuals accountable for electoral-related violence to maintain peace and justice. Last year, Nderitu's office collaborated with traditional leaders in Abuja to develop a plan of action for atrocity prevention, emphasizing the role of traditional leaders as agents of prevention globally. She emphasized the importance of partnerships with governments, civil society, women, and youth in preventing conflicts by addressing root causes and promoting sustainable peace. Nderitu called on tech and social media companies to utilize tools to combat hate speech on their platforms, preventing incitement to discrimination or violence. She commended the media for its role in educating and informing the public during elections, urging them to counter narratives of hatred with verified facts. Nderitu also acknowledged the support of her United Nations colleagues in West Africa and Nigeria in promoting peaceful elections. Reflecting on her personal experiences in Nigeria, she emphasized the country's potential for division and mistrust, but also highlighted the values of mutual respect, dignity, justice, and reconciliation. Nderitu concluded with a message of hope for Nigeria's election and expressed gratitude for the warm reception she received in the country. As Nigeria prepares for its presidential election, addressing hate speech emerges as a critical measure to ensure peaceful and inclusive democratic processes.