DepEd backs UN stance vs hate speech

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Education (DepEd) has expressed support for the United Nations’ strategy and plan of action on hate speech, saying it has no place in the classroom or society.

The DepEd stressed the importance of strengthening good manners and right conduct and values education curriculum in the basic education system, especially among children.

Anti-bullying and child protection policies are also being strictly implemented in schools to protect and educate learners, especially amid the new challenges posed by the changing communication landscape.

“Guided by international and national frameworks and policies on equality, DepEd recognizes the important role of education in addressing and building resilience against hate speech, which can cause grave implications to people, groups, or even nations,” DepEd said in a statement.

The agency noted that social media has spurred the proliferation of conflicting information, fake news and misrepresentation that need to be countered by critical thinking skills by all members of society.

It urged teachers, parents, learners and partners to help foster decency and civility in the fight against violence, hate speech and discrimination, both virtually and in person.

“Hate speech and discrimination – on the basis of gender, ethnicity, religious affiliation, political belief and age – must have no place in our homes, in our classrooms, and most importantly, in our democratic society,” DepEd said.

The UN strategy and plan of action aims to address hate speech through measures in line with international human rights norms and standards, in particular the right to freedom of opinion and expression.

It aims to enhance UN efforts to address the root causes and drivers of hate speech and enable effective responses to the impact of hate speech on societies.