As the world grapples with the scourge of hate speech and its devastating consequences, Kigali is poised to become a pivotal point in the global fight against this insidious evil. The upcoming symposium on hate speech and incitement to violence is both timely and crucial. ALSO READ UN official denounces rising hate speech in eastern DR Congo Happening in Kigali from Thursday, July 25, the workshop will dissect the Role of all media stakeholders including journalists to address hate speech and prevent incitement to violence that could lead to genocide and related crimes. The region, particularly the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, has been a harrowing theater of hate-fueled violence. Innocent lives have been tragically cut short, communities displaced, and the fabric of society torn apart. ALSO READ: UN confirms FDLR active in DR Congo, warns of genocide These atrocities, often incited by venomous rhetoric, demand a resolute and unified response. The symposium in Kigali offers a unique opportunity to convene experts, policymakers, and civil society leaders from around the world. It is a chance to share knowledge, experiences, and best practices in preventing and countering hate speech. By fostering dialogue and cooperation, this gathering can serve as a catalyst for developing effective strategies to combat this menace. While the challenges are immense, we must not lose hope. The symposium can be a beacon of light, illuminating the path towards a more peaceful and inclusive world, especially the Great Lakes Region. It is an opportunity to reaffirm our shared humanity and our commitment to upholding the dignity and rights of all people. ALSO READ: UN Genocide prevention chief hears ‘harrowing stories’ of Congolese refugees in Rwanda Let us hope that the outcomes of this symposium will translate into tangible actions to protect vulnerable communities and hold perpetrators of hate speech accountable. The suffering of the Congolese people must not be in vain. Their plight serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need to address this global crisis. Let us collectively pledge to stand united against hate. Let us work tirelessly to create a future where tolerance, respect, and understanding prevail. It should also be a platform for honest and candid dialogue. The media, especially the so-called western media, has had its fair share of blame in fueling the conflict in eastern DR Congo. Many of them, despite having presence in the region, they have chosen to toe the line of the politicians in their respective capitals instead of reporting the truth on ground.
