The United Nations (UN’s) International Day for Countering Hate Speech is observed annually on June 18 across the globe to combat the rising spread of discriminatory rhetoric and to foster intercultural dialogue and tolerance.
- June 18, 2025, marks the 4th observance of the International Day for Countering Hate Speech. It also coincides with the 6th anniversary of the UN Strategy and Plan of Action on Hate Speech (launched June 18, 2019).
Theme:
The theme for 2025 is “Hate Speech and Artificial Intelligence Nexus: Building coalitions to reclaim inclusive and secure environments free of hatred”, which highlights the dual role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a tool that can both amplify and counter hate speech across digital and social platforms.
Significance of 2025 Observance:
i.The 2025 observance focuses on the influence of AI in shaping online communication and public discourse.
ii.It underscores the need for responsible AI development to prevent the spread of hateful content.
iii.Emphasis is placed on engaging youth, equipping them with digital tools, platforms, and skills to challenge hate narratives and promote inclusive dialogue.
Background:
i.On 21 July 2021, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) adopted Resolution A/RES/75/309, proclaiming 18 June of every year as the International Day for Countering Hate Speech, based on the framework of the UN Strategy and Plan of Action on Hate Speech.
ii.The first International Day for Countering Hate Speech was observed on June 18, 2022.
What Is Hate Speech?
The UN defines hate speech as any form of communication, like verbal, written, or behavioural, that demeans a person or group based on religion, ethnicity, nationality, race, colour, descent, gender, or other identity factors. Such speech foments division, intolerance, and violence.
UN Strategy and Plan of Action on Hate Speech:
This is the first system-wide initiative by the UN aimed at providing a structured framework to support Member States in addressing hate speech at both national and global levels. It aims to
- Strengthen UN efforts in identifying and addressing the root causes and drivers of hate speech.
- Facilitate an effective UN response to mitigate the impact of hate speech on societies.
2025 Events:
i.On June 16, 2025, a high-level event was organised in New York, United States of America (USA) ahead of the International Day for Countering Hate Speech 2025 observance.
- The event was hosted by the Permanent Mission of the Kingdom of Morocco to UN, the UN Office of the Special Adviser on the Prevention of Genocide, the Human Rights Center of the University of Essex (United Kingdom, UK), and the Garden of the Righteous Worldwide (GARIWO) Foundation (Italy).
- The event focused on building global coalitions to reclaim digital spaces from AI-driven hatred, highlighting the urgent need for collective action to counter hate speech amplified by AI technologies.
ii.The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) launched a digital campaign highlighting the growing impact of AI-driven hate speech on women, girls, and LGBTQI+(Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, Asexual, and other identities) individuals.
About United Nations (UN):
Secretary General (SG) – António Guterres
Headquarters – New York (the United States of America, USA)
Established – 1945
Member States – 193
