Nicosia: Hate speech should not become the norm, Commissioner for Administration and Protection of Human Rights, Maria Stylianou Lottidi, told CNA, emphasizing the importance of an ongoing information and awareness campaign against hate speech and misinformation. This initiative is being pursued vigorously by her office, sending a direct message that misinformation and hate speech ‘must stop.’
According to Cyprus News Agency, the campaign, implemented by the Office of the Commissioner for Administration and Human Rights, has been active since last June. Lottidi outlined that the campaign will continue with new interventions every two months to highlight the dangers posed by toxic practices in public discourse, particularly on social media.
Lottidi mentioned that the campaign gained traction during the pre-election period and is now advancing with new strategies. In June and July, posters with messages against hate speech were placed in public spaces and on roadside billboards. Although these have been removed, the campaign persists with the distribution of printed materials to government agencies and posts on social media.
The Commissioner emphasized that misinformation and hate speech is a pan-European issue being addressed at the European level. The campaign has received positive feedback from abroad, implemented in collaboration with Equinet, the European Network of Equality Bodies, and recognized as good practice by Cyprus’ partners.
Despite the absence of official cooperation with ministries, the campaign has seen a positive response from institutions. The Cyprus Police have been reproducing the campaign’s messages through their social media channels, with similar support from other services.
The Commissioner confirmed that the campaign will continue with new phases every two months, with her Office closely monitoring the impact to enhance effectiveness.