Media workers, influencers, content creators and disc jockeys (DJs) were among persons consulted today as the Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC), United Nations (Guyana) and the Guyana National Broadcasting Authority (GNBA) explored strategies and a plan of action to counter ‘hate speech’ in Guyana. 

According to the United Nations (UN), hate speech is any kind of communication in speech, writing, or behavior that attacks or uses discriminatory language with reference to a person or a group. 

UN Resident Coordinator (ag), Gerardo Noto said media operatives and social media influencers play an important role in the fight to combat hate speech, as he addressed those present at a ‘Countering Hate Speech’ workshop at the Pegasus Hotel today. 

“Each of you have critical roles to play as media workers, influencers, DJs and content creators in shaping public discourse, promoting inclusivity, and safeguarding the values that unite Guyana as a society. In today’s interconnected world, media platforms, whether traditional or digital, hold immense power to amplify messages that can either foster understanding and unity or drive division and conflict,” Noto said.

He said hate speech, whether subtle or overt, has the potential to tear at the fabric of society, adding that it can incite violence and deepen divisions among people. 

Media workers, content creators, influencers and DJs, he said, have the power to be apart of the solution. 

“By using your platforms, and raising your voice, you may raise awareness, promote tolerance, and challenge discrimination. You really can make a difference. You can help turn the tide against hate speech, and foster a culture of respect, inclusion and dialogue,” the UN Resident Coordinator (ag) said. 

The UN Official also said the workshop provides a safe space for stakeholders to share their experiences, observations and challenges, all while exploring practical strategies that can help Guyanese to navigate the complex and at times, challenging media landscape. 

Chairman of the Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC), Shaikh Moeenul Hack said the workshop is aimed at fostering a more harmonious and respectful society with focus on the role of the media.  

“Today, we gather to effect meaningful change, strive towards the eradication of hate speech from our society. The ERC recognizes the significance that media practitioners play in disseminating information to the public. With that role, comes great responsibility. This workshop aims to expand your understanding of hate speech within the unique context of Guyana, equipping you with the knowledge necessary to navigate, challenge it effectively,” the ERC Chairman explained. 

He said while Guyana is largely a harmonious country, racial and ethnic violations remain a major concern, with rising tension at elections. Hack said the ERC has documented numerous instances of hateful comments rooted in race and ethnicity. Such findings, he said, underscores importance of the workshop. 

Meanwhile, the Chairperson of GNBA, Latchmie Rahamat, said the workshop comes at a critical time. Rahamat said while Guyana has a multicultural, multiracial society, it is unfortunate that it is plagued by hate speech. 

In this regard, she said, GNBA has taken note of a number of infractions by broadcasters, and continues to advocate for responsible behavior at all levels. 

“Hate Speech is a red infraction. It is very serious. But by the time, the infractors come before us, we deal with the level of the broadcasters, that is the individual who more than likely was not present in the green room when the said hate speech or violating statements are made. We hope that by bringing all stakeholders together, those who hold the licenses, those who present on the platforms, those who edit and create the content, can all come together and present pliable solutions that can be adopted and implemented in our fight against eradicating and eliminating hate speech from our society,” the GNBA Chairman said. 

The counter hate speech workshop is one of several initiatives being held by the ERC in partnership with UN Guyana as part of their campaign to counter hate speech. 

The campaign was launched in June.  

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