On December 18, 2023, Symbiosis in collaboration with the Actionaid Youth Centre in Thessaloniki and Thessaloniki Pride, organised a participatory youth meeting on the topic “Discussing Hate Speech – Changing Behavior.” Participants delved into the various and interconnected forms of hate speech, examining the individual implications that contribute to the expansion of the phenomenon in both online and offline environments.
Throughout the discussion, particular emphasis was placed on scrutinizing the “innocent” comments that lead to hate speech and hate crimes, as well as exploring the boundaries between free speech and hate speech. By highlighting the multi-dimensional nature of the phenomenon and emphasizing the importance of developing positive messages and alternative narratives, the event contributed to a deeper understanding of the challenges surrounding hate speech. The discussion on these specific themes was enriched through the active participation of attendees, who shared their personal experiences and expressed their views and concerns, thereby enhancing the overall dialogue.
