The continuing monitoring of social networks by the Human Rights Defender's Office indicates a growing tendency of hate speech and intolerance over the last few days.
The tendency of division and contrast of different groups of society in social networks is of special concern. At the same time, the opponents' opinion is often not tolerated at all, and the reversals often dishonor human dignity, propagate hatred, and in separate cases even incite enmity against specific individuals.
These are the obvious factors that contribute to tension in society. There is also growing concern that involvement of people in social network discussions has increased dramatically in recent days, and mass demonstrations and marches are still continuing.
From the point of view of guaranteeing human rights, it is important in any case to fully protect human dignity and secrecy of private life. In this sense, for instance, the group publications of personal data of the members of parliament, including their personal phone numbers is of concern. The review indicates evident ridicule, insult and hate speech in the domains of social media, where these phone numbers are published. It is obvious that this is a factor promoting the atmosphere of intolerance. Moreover, this can create a dangerous precedent of psychological influence through the unsanctioned dissemination of personal data of public figures.
The role of mass media is crucial in this complicated situation.
Hence, the Human Rights Defender calls to all media representatives to immediately remove any comments that promote intolerance or hatred or calls for violence, regardless of whether they are made by a seemingly false or actual user. We also exhort to pay more attention to the verification of disseminating news, as well as to selection of titles.