Costa Rica, with the support of the United Nations (UN), is taking a strong stand against online hate and discrimination by developing Latin America’s first-ever strategy to combat these issues. The strategy, set to be unveiled by the end of 2023, aims to establish the framework for new national policies. As online platforms increasingly become breeding grounds for hate speech, discrimination, and violence, it is crucial to address this alarming trend.
Faustina Torres, a member of the Bribri indigenous community in Costa Rica, has been fighting against the discrimination she has faced since childhood. She believes that Costa Rican society does not acknowledge the existence of indigenous people, which leads to their invisibility and perpetuates discrimination. Torres’ experience is just one example of the many targeted individuals who suffer from the consequences of hate and discrimination.
A recent study, conducted with the help of artificial intelligence (AI), revealed that hate and discrimination-related content on social media platforms in Costa Rica has witnessed a significant increase of 255% since 2021. Women, particularly those in leadership positions, individuals from LGBTQ communities, and migrants are often the primary targets. The study also highlighted the fear experienced by these targeted individuals in expressing their opinions.
In response to the UN’s call for immediate action, Costa Rica has taken the initiative to create a safe digital space. The upcoming strategy, developed in collaboration with experts from the UN and the government, will offer solutions to combat hate and discrimination online. It will address issues such as determining responsibilities, implementing monitoring mechanisms, and identifying areas that require action.
Costa Rica has already implemented several measures to tackle these challenges. They have launched a guide to confront digital violence against women in politics and established an observatory on hate speech in partnership with the University of Costa Rica. Additionally, the country has enacted legislation to protect women in politics and worked with the Lawyers Committee Association to create a handbook for those affected by hate speech. Efforts are also underway to teach debate in schools, emphasizing the importance of respecting one another and promoting coexistence.
This comprehensive approach aligns with UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ goal of combating hate speech both online and offline. Guterres believes that hate speech poses a threat to peace, development, and human rights. His UN Strategy and Plan of Action on Hate Speech, launched in 2019, aims to address growing xenophobia, racism, intolerance, misogyny, anti-Semitism, and anti-Muslim sentiments worldwide.
Costa Rica’s strategy to combat online hate and discrimination serves as a significant step in the right direction. The ultimate goal is to create a safe and inclusive digital environment that can serve as a blueprint for other countries facing similar challenges. By taking decisive action, Costa Rica and the UN hope to prevent the normalization of hate, violence, and discrimination in public and digital spaces.
In conclusion, the fight against online hate and discrimination requires collaboration between the state and various social actors. Costa Rica’s efforts, with the support of the UN, demonstrate the determination to address this pressing challenge and uphold the values of respect and coexistence in the digital realm.
