Cyberhate is a form of digital violence that manifests itself through the internet and social media in the form of messages, images, memes or videos that humiliate, attack, discriminate against or incite hatred against individuals or groups on grounds such as their ethnic origin, culture, religion, gender, sexual orientation or identity.
It is not just about insults. Cyberhate also includes the dissemination of stereotypes and prejudices, the ridicule or dehumanisation of groups, the justification of violence, or social exclusion in digital environments.
Cyberhate has real consequences. It can damage self-esteem and emotional well-being, generate fear, shame or isolation, increase prejudice and intolerance, and encourage violence outside the internet. In adolescence, this impact is even greater, because it is a key stage in the construction of identity, social relationships and critical thinking.
Social media and digital platforms make it easy for hate to spread quickly and, often, anonymously. In addition, some organised groups use content that appeals to young people -memes, videos, music, or video games- to subtly introduce hateful messages and capture their attention.
Not everything published on the internet is acceptable. Freedom of expression does not include the right to humiliate, discriminate or incite hatred against other people. Recognising the difference between opinion, criticism and hate speech is a key skill that ACIBERA works on with students.