United Nations Malawi Statement on the International Day for Countering Hate Speech

Theme: Hate Speech and Artificial Intelligence

18 June 2025 - As Malawi joins the global community in observing the International Day for Countering Hate Speech, the United Nations in Malawi calls for renewed vigilance and collective action to confront the growing threat of hate speech, both online and offline, especially as the nation prepares for its general elections in September 2025.

The danger of hate speech is real, and its consequences are profound. In Malawi, as in many countries, the spread of hateful rhetoric often intensifies during election periods, exploiting political, ethnic, regional, gender, and religious differences. In recent years, the country has witnessed incidents of hate speech targeting political opponents, journalists, women, persons with albinism, and other vulnerable groups, both on traditional platforms and increasingly through social media. Left unchecked, these narratives can fuel division, incite violence, and undermine peace, stability, and democratic processes.

This year’s theme draws attention to the new frontier of this challenge: Artificial Intelligence (AI). Hate speech now travels faster and farther than ever before, amplified by digital algorithms and unregulated online spaces. AI and social media platforms risk becoming vehicles for toxic content and harassment if not guided by strong human rights safeguards.

Malawi’s Constitution guarantees freedom of expression, but this freedom must be exercised with responsibility. The Electronic Transactions and Cybersecurity Act of 2016 provides a legal framework to address unlawful online behaviour, but combating hate speech requires more than legislation. It demands a whole-of-society approach.

The 2024 Summit of the Future produced the Global Digital Compact, which provides a global roadmap for governing digital spaces, including the responsible use of AI. The United Nations Strategy and Plan of Action on Hate Speech offers guidance for all actors, including government, civil society, media, and tech companies, to respond to and prevent the escalation of hateful rhetoric.

In the months ahead, as Malawi prepares for its elections, the United Nations calls on all political actors, media houses, civil society organisations, youth groups, traditional leaders, and citizens to reject hate speech in all its forms. Elections should be a celebration of democracy, not a trigger for division and fear.

As the United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres reminds us: “Hate speech is poison in the well of society. It has paved the way for violence and atrocity during the darkest chapters of human history. Ethnic and religious minorities often bear the brunt – facing discrimination, exclusion and harm.”

The United Nations stands ready to continue supporting Malawi in building inclusive, respectful, and peaceful discourse as part of strengthening democratic governance and safeguarding human rights. Together, let us reaffirm our commitment to stand against hate, protect the dignity of all, and ensure that Malawi’s democratic journey remains peaceful, respectful, and just for every citizen.

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For media queries 

Bennet Phunyanya, Associate Communications Office, United Nations Resident Coordinator’s Office (UNRCO) | Email: bennet.phunyanya@undp.org