How Citizens Can Respond to Hate Speech During Elections

Let’s Keep the Focus on Governance and Accountability

Newsreel Asia Insight #200
April 23, 2024

Hate speech during elections is a challenge many democracies face. When the ruling party uses hateful rhetoric to dominate public discourse and divert attention from its governance failures, ordinary citizens often wonder how to respond. The key is to counter hate speech while keeping the focus on important issues such as governance and accountability.

When a politician addresses an audience in a specific constituency during an election and uses hate speech, it is often intended to garner media coverage. This tactic creates a sensation, encouraging voters nationwide to discuss the issue, diverting attention from topics more relevant to the public’s well-being.

Citizens can counter this by redirecting conversations to core issues. When someone brings up hate speech, ask questions that bring the topic back to matters like education, healthcare, infrastructure, jobs, hunger, political funding, abuse of power, and so on. Questions like, “What does this have to do with solving our problems?” or “Who should decide what we talk about?” can expose diversionary tactics. Keeping the focus on governance ensures that the political discourse remains centred on what truly matters.

It’s crucial to respond to hate speech without escalating the conflict. Reacting with aggression often gives more attention to the hateful rhetoric. Instead, approach the situation calmly and with confidence. You can assert that hate speech is unacceptable by saying, “We don’t tolerate hate here,” or “That’s not what our community stands for.” By reacting calmly, you avoid fuelling further negativity and demonstrate that such rhetoric is not welcome.

A powerful way to counter hate speech is by promoting positive narratives. Share stories that celebrate diversity and community resilience. These stories can shift the focus from hateful rhetoric to themes of unity and inclusion. Additionally, encourage discussions that centre on constructive solutions to community problems. By focusing on what brings people together, you can dilute the impact of hate speech.

Connecting with others who share a common goal of rejecting hate speech can strengthen the community’s resilience. Engage with local groups and organisations that promote social justice and equality. Support leaders who advocate for unity and good governance, as they can help guide conversations away from hate speech. Building a network of like-minded individuals creates a supportive environment where hate speech finds little ground to thrive.

Participating in civic activities is a direct way to demonstrate your commitment to accountability and good governance. Attend community events to show that your focus is on holding leaders accountable. Organising or joining community-driven projects can also promote positive change and counteract hate speech by fostering social cohesion.

If hate speech violates laws, including election laws, or community guidelines, report it to the appropriate authorities. However, be mindful not to spread hate speech further by sharing or commenting on it excessively. Addressing it through the proper channels ensures that it is dealt with in a way that doesn’t give it additional attention.

Voting is a powerful tool for countering hate speech. Encourage others to vote for candidates who focus on governance and reject hateful rhetoric. By voting, you can directly influence the political landscape and show that citizens demand accountability. Inspire your friends and family to vote, reminding them that their participation in the democratic process is the best way to reject hate speech and support good governance.

By staying focused on core issues, promoting positive conversations, building community support, engaging civically, reporting hate speech properly and exercising voting rights, citizens can maintain a strong focus on governance and the well-being of their communities.