Online hate Speech. Education as Prevention

The hate speech category includes hate speech aimed at harming the dignity and freedom of the person addressed to subjects belonging to specific social groups or minorities. Online hate is an example of how the Internet offers opportunities but also difficult challenges with regard to freedom of expression and human dignity. The Internet has allowed a global dialogue in which people experience the freedom of expression and the amplified dissemination of their messages, including those that express hatred. The evolution of digital communication tools and the development of social networks seem to have given impetus to a pervasive proliferation of hate speech online. A wide and complex phenomenon such as online hate cannot, however, be dealt with through legal provisions alone, rather it requires cultural work. In this regard, effective initiatives can be found in terms of education and communication. These are the aspects this contribution intends to dwell on, focusing its attention primarily - but not exclusively - on the debate and initiatives that have developed in Italy.