Government Task Force examines internet hate speech

A Government Task Force is meeting today to discuss ways of combating the growing problem of people publishing bigoted statements on websites.

The Internet Hate Speech Task Force hearing follows a meeting yesterday attended by MPs and internet service providers. 

At yesterday's discussion, Israel's Minister of Public Affairs and Diaspora Affairs Yuli Edelstein Minister Edelstein, said:"The issue of hate on the internet needs greater attention given its scope and potential for harm.!

At today's meeting, hosted by John Mann MP, the Task Force set up by the Inter-Parliamentary Coalition for Combating Anti-Semitism (ICCA) will look at the nature and scope of internet hate. This will include racism, religious hate speech, misogyny and homophobia.

The types of hate speech that are appearing on the internet will be examined as will the various online media through which it appears.

The hearing will also highlight the impact that internet hate can have, including its role in fostering hate crimes, and it will include testimonies from experts and witnesses.

John Mann MP said yesterday that hate on the internet is "a global problem requiring a global solution.

"I hope bringing Parliamentarians and industry experts together to seek out and highlight best practice will be another step towards a more tolerant online society."

Further hearings will be scheduled by the Task Force and a report containing recommendations in late 2012