Unveiling the Internet's Dark Corner: Germans Demand Action Against Hate Speech
- ⏱️ ~ 2 Min
Germans Express Urgent Demand for Political Action Online - Online Hate Speech: A Call for Action from Most Germans Towards Politicians
Internet hostility and vitriol? Almost three-quarters of Germans have experienced it! A survey by Forsa on behalf of RTL reveals this startling fact during the International Day Against Hate Speech, held every year on June 18th.
Action Day Against Hate Speech on the Internet: June 18
The survey reveals that 71% of respondents have encountered hostile, derogatory, or aggressive remarks online. Young people and daily social media users are particularly at risk. However, fewer than 16% have been directly targeted by online hate speech. Among those unaffected, a majority still believes that politics isn't doing enough to tackle this issue—70% want more action! Even 55% of AfD supporters agree. Yet, only 14% believe that measures against online hate speech infringe upon freedom of speech. Contrarily, 83% disagree.
In 2021, the United Nations designated June 18th as the International Day Against Hate Speech. This year, UN Secretary-General António Guterres emphasizes the threat of AI-propagated hate speech and "toxic" algorithms. He urges us to fight toxic narratives with positive messages and to empower individuals to recognize, reject, and defend against hate speech.
RTL Germany is supporting the action day with their initiative "Together. Against Hate Speech and Online Harassment." This week, RTL will delve into the impact of online hate culture, providing practical advice for those directly affected. Topics include how to handle cyberbullying, its effects on children's psyches, where to seek help, and understanding legal options. The Ministry for Digital Affairs also has plans in store.
Note: Forsa, a polling institute, conducted the survey on behalf of RTL Germany from June 10 to 12, 2025.
Terms to Know:- Hate Speech- Forsa- Polling Institute
Interested in learning more about youth and hate speech? Visit University of Münster's Department of Communication for ongoing research and insights on the topic!
Just curious, did you know that the United Nations is also tackling hate speech globally? Learn more about their efforts by [visiting the UN's official website on hate speech]!
- Thecommunity policy of RTL Germany, in response to the alarming prevalence of hate speech, especially on social media, is addressing the impact of online hate culture through their initiative "Together. Against Hate Speech and Online Harassment."
- Despite the general-news that only 14% believe that measures against online hate speech infringe upon freedom of speech, a staggering 83% disagree, indicating a strong support for policy changes in politics regarding this issue, as well as in employment policies across various sectors, such as entertainment and social-media industries.
