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What does Unia do against online hate speech?

We combat punishable hate speech in connection with the protected characteristics for which Unia is competent. We are glad to explain below how we work with the parties involved and support victims. 

Freedom of speech is very important in a democracy. Yet there are limits to that freedom. For example, if you spread a message with the intention of inciting others to discrimination, segregation, hatred or violence, it is punishable by law. Find out more about hate speech and the limits to free speech

We work with social media companies and moderators

  • Unia works with social media companies to combat hate messages. Posts that we believe cross the boundaries of free speech can be signalled to them. When reported, the social media companies initially look at their own terms of use, but must also take national laws into account. They ultimately decide autonomously whether to remove a post or not.
  • Unia can urge moderators of online forums to remove offending posts. We give them advice and tips so that they can properly moderate the forum.

We support victims of hate speech

  • If you are personally a victim of punishable hate speech, you can report it to Unia. You will then receive individual support. Together, we prepare a case file and evaluate what steps are possible.
  • Even if you are not personally the victim of hate speech, you can report hate messages. In that case, we will handle your report, but do not offer individual support.

Please note that Unia is only competent for statements for which the author and/or the medium are located in Belgium.

If you make a report, we advise you to send a link to the message and a screenshot of the message.

How does Unia respond to a notification?

In the first instance, we at Unia aim to have the hate speech removed. That way, the perpetrator gets the signal that the statements are not allowed and the hate speech cannot be spread further.

Only in exceptional circumstances does Unia consider legal action. Examples:

  • A group organises itself with the intention of spreading punishable hate speech.
  • A person or group repeatedly incites others to discrimination, segregation, hatred or violence. 
  • A person repeatedly spreads punishable hate speech, fails to engage in dialogue with us and knowingly violates the law. 

What is hate speech?

Hate speech consists of statements that attack or insult a person or group. Such statements are punishable by law if they exceed the legal limits of freedom of speech. 

How to respond to online hate speech?

Hateful, racist, homophobic... posts on the Internet: how should you respond to this hate speech? Find out more from.