TRIPOLI - Hate speech undermines peace, deepens rifts, and has, many times throughout history, contributed to igniting conflict. In Libya, where politics are polarized and security is fragile, hate speech—especially when targeted along regional, tribal, or ethnic lines—threatens efforts to unite and stabilize the country. 

Combating hate speech requires action at every level—by state institutions, community leaders, media professionals, technology platforms, civil society, and ordinary citizens. We must replace incendiary rhetoric with narratives of inclusion, dignity and hope.

The United Nations Support Mission in Libya remains committed to working with all Libyans to foster dialogue, support reconciliation, and promote responsible public discourse. We must also ensure that new technologies, including Artificial Intelligence, are used to build peace—not to divide communities or spread misinformation and hate.

On this International Day for Countering Hate Speech, let us reaffirm our shared responsibility: to speak out against hate, to promote respect across all lines of difference, and to work toward a Libya rooted in unity, justice, and lasting peace.

Hanna Serwaa Tetteh
Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Libya
Head of the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL)