In the framework of the CHASE- Combating online hate speech by engaging online media, a Report on Online hate speech on the grounds of gender/gender identity: legal framework analysis and mapping of existing response practices has been published.

CHASE – Combating online hate speech by engaging online media is a EU project implemented in Belgium, Cyprus, France, Greece, and Italy and funded by the CERV Programme of the European Union, which aims to respond to the EU challenge of tackling online gender and gender identity-based hate speech, which flourishes on online mass media and has dire consequences, fueling violence and discrimination.

In the context of the project, the partners in Cyprus (Center for Social Innovation), France (European Center for Human Rights), Greece (Symplexis), and Italy (CESIE European Center of Studies and Initiatives) conducted primary and secondary research to investigate the existing national legal frameworks, including the incorporated European and international legislation, in the participating countries regarding online hate speech based on gender and gender identity. They also studied past hate speech cases that reached court, and identified challenges related to police investigation and reporting, the exercise of legal rights, and prosecution.

Moreover, the research aims to identify existing best practices and suggest improvements and methods for more effective detection, investigation, prevention, and combat of online hate speech, particularly based on gender and gender identity.

Partners implemented the provisions of a research protocol developed by Symplexis for the project’s research purposes. Following these research guidelines, partners involved in the research activities conducted desk research as well as personal interviews with human rights legal experts and law enforcement agencies and organized focus groups with experts and professionals on gender/gender identity and/or (online) hate speech issues.

Read the report.