Shilan Sheikhmous: Media and social media have become the first front for hate speech

The head of relations and communication at "Tevna Kurdi" organization, Shilan Sheikhmous said that the reasons for hate speech are many, and the increased spread in the Syrian situation is due to the proliferation of sects, nationalities and religions on one hand, and the lack of awareness and culture that starts with family education and educational institutions on the other hand.

Sheikhmous's speech came during the discussion session held by Ezdina Organization entitled "Discussion of hate speech and anti-extremism", last Monday, at the Ezdina's office in the city of Qamishlo/Qamishli in the presence of a group of representatives from media organizations and civil society organizations in addition to influential figures in the community.

Sheikhmous stressed that the main reason for the spread of this phenomenon is the media and social media, which has become the front line for hate speech, in addition to the absence of laws and censorship in general, and the lack of enforcement if applicable.

The phenomenon can be reduced through family education and educational schools, she said, with the school curricula being reviewed and revised from hate speech.

Sheikmous stressed the importance of supporting civic organizations that oppose hate speech and violence, noting that everyone must start to face this speech, which has serious and long-term implications for society as a whole.

It is worth mentioning that Ezdina organization opened its office on the first of August in Qamishlo/Qamishli city and launched the hope project in the region as part of an academic and professional work program aimed at increasing the community's awareness of the Yazidi identity and promoting rapprochement between religious and national components in northeastern Syria through respect for pluralism, acceptance of the other and renouncing hate speech and violence.