Models of Governance of online Hate Speech

Common standards for the regulation of online hate speech in Europe, while necessary to avoid a patchwork effect, need not be implemented in identical way for every country and should ensure pluralism and freedom of speech, especially when dealing with “grey area” cases. A victim-sensitive method should be at the core of the governments’ efforts. However, mechanisms should be put in place to mitigate the incentive to over-remove content increasing censorship.

These are among conclusions of the new study from the Council of Europe that looks at recent innovations in governance tools for online hate speech initiated by national governments, intergovernmental organisations and Internet intermediaries across Europe in recent years, including the NetzDG Act in Germany, the Avia Bill in France and Facebook Oversight Board.

The study is based on meetings, in-depth interviews, a questionnaire and a public survey of experts, representatives of national authorities, social media platforms and civil society organisations.