Taking a Stand Against Online Hate: Germany's Response to Cyberbullying and Discriminatory Speech
Majority of Germans Call for Political Action Online - Intense Online Hatred: Over Half of Germans Urge Political Action
Approx. reading time: 2 minutes
In today's digital age, the battle against cyberbullying and hate speech is a priority for many nations, and Germany is no exception. A recent survey by Forsa on behalf of RTL, conducted between June 10th and 12th, 2025, shed light on the pervasiveness of hate online and the public's expectations of their political leaders.
Action Day Against Cyberbullying and Hate Speech: June 18
The survey found that a staggering 71% of respondents reported experiencing hostile, derogatory, or aggressive statements online at least occasionally. Notably, younger individuals and frequent social media users are more likely to encounter such behavior. Fewer than one-fifth (16%) of respondents admitted having been personally targetted by hate speech.
While personal experiences of hate speech remain relatively low, over 70% of respondents expressed dissatisfaction with the current efforts of politicians to combat online hate and called for increased action. The sentiment is shared across the political spectrum, with a majority of AfD supporters feeling that more could be done. Conversely, only 14% believe that measures against hate speech infringe upon free speech, with an overwhelming 83% disagreeing.
United Nations Condemns Hate Speech via AI and Biased Algorithms
June 18 marks the International Day for Combating Hate Speech, first declared by the United Nations in 2021. This year, Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized the dangers of the use of artificial intelligence and biased algorithms in spreading hate. He urged countries to counter toxic narratives with positive messages, empowering people to recognize, reject, and defend against online hate.
RTL Germany Supports the Fight Against Cyberbullying and Hate Speech
RTL Germany supports the Action Day Against Hate Speech and has launched the initiative "Together. Against Hate and Hate Speech." This week, RTL will report on the effects of negative online culture, provide practical advice for dealing with cyberbullying, and discuss legal options, as well as the government's plans regarding the Ministry for Digital Affairs.
Key Takeaways:
- Three out of four Germans have faced hate online, with younger individuals and frequent social media users more likely to encounter it.
- A clear majority (70%) feels that their political leaders should do more to address online hate, including among AfD supporters.
- The United Nations warns of the dangers of AI and biased algorithms in the spread of hate speech.
- RTL Germany supports the Action Day against Hate Speech with its initiative "Together. Against Hate and Hate Speech."
Further Reading:
- Hate
- Hate Speech
- Forsa (Polling Institute)
Sources:
Forsa, United Nations.
Several respondents in Germany's community expressed dissatisfaction with the current employment policy, specifically regarding politicians' efforts to combat online hate, highlighting a need for increased action in the employment policy.
The general-news sector, including RTL Germany, has made combating cyberbullying and hate speech a priority, with initiatives like "Together. Against Hate and Hate Speech," and is also reporting on the government's policies related to the Ministry for Digital Affairs.
