Hate speech is not merely a problem of language but a profound threat to human rights, democracy, social harmony, and civilized coexistence, speakers said at a discussion organized by PEN Bangladesh on Saturday.
The discussion, titled “Confronting Hate Speech: Challenges and Responses,” was held at Dhanmondi to mark the International Day for Countering Hate Speech, observed annually on June 18. Established by the United Nations in 2021, the day serves as a global call to action to address the escalating spread of hate speech online and offline.
The spread of technology and the unprecedented reach of social media have widened the space for expression while simultaneously creating new avenues for inciting hatred, intolerance, and violence, the speakers said.
“Addressing hate speech today is not just a legal or technical question — it is also an ethical, cultural, and political one,” they noted, adding that state institutions, politics, and society often encourage it, and arousing the humane conscience of people is essential to resist it.
The speakers said that laws alone are not enough to counter hate speech. Social and cultural resistance must be built, and to stand against hatred, society must promote compassion, reason, and the language of humanity.
Literature, arts, culture, and education can play important roles in this regard, they said. Writers, artists, journalists, and intellectuals have a responsibility to create a moral and cultural space in society where differing identities, beliefs, and opinions are seen not as enemies but as parts of humane diversity.
Likewise, the media’s responsibility is to prevent rumors and disinformation, deliver verified information, and amplify the voices of marginalized communities, the speakers said.
“We must remember that the fight against hate speech is ultimately a fight for humanity,” they said. “The more powerful the language of hatred becomes, the stronger we must make the language of our literature, culture and civic courage.”
A society becomes truly civilized when it can ensure the dignity and safety of people with different views, beliefs, and ways of life, the speakers concluded.
The discussion was moderated by PEN Bangladesh executive member and writer Muhammad Moheuddin. Speakers included Jahangirnagar University Professor Ainun Nahar, Dhaka University Professor Rafiqul Islam, Desh Rupantor Editor Mustafiz Shafi, and ULAB Assistant Professor Avanti Harun.
PEN Bangladesh vice-president Parvez Hossain and professor-poet Shamim Reza delivered welcome remarks, while PEN Bangladesh president and ULAB vice-chancellor Professor Samsad Mortuza sent greetings online.
