Online hate speech is not an endemic issue; rather, it is a phenomenon that spreads across national borders. While its forms, targets, and narratives may vary, common patterns consistently emerge across different countries. Our research demonstrates how online hate speech is rapidly evolving, shaped by political developments, societal tensions, and technological change.
Online hate speech across Europe is becoming more visible, normalized, and technologically sophisticated. This report, compiled by the International Network Against Cyber Hate (INACH) and partner organizations, examines emerging trends and patterns in the monitoring of online hate across multiple countries. Drawing on case studies and monitoring data from civil society organizations, it highlights how hate speech increasingly targets migrants, religious minorities, and LGBTIQ+ communities, often intersecting with broader narratives of racism, xenophobia, and political polarization.
The findings reveal that online hate is frequently amplified during political events such as elections and public debates, while political rhetoric, media narratives, and algorithmic amplification contribute to the spread and normalization of harmful discourse. At the same time, new technological developments are transforming how hate speech is produced and disseminated, making detection and moderation more challenging. These technological developments include: AI-generated content, deepfakes, and coded communication tactics.
By analyzing these developments across different national contexts, the report provides insight into the evolving dynamics of online hate and outlines key recommendations for policymakers, social media platforms, and civil society organizations. Addressing the issue requires coordinated action that combines stronger regulation, more consistent platform enforcement, and continued monitoring and advocacy to protect vulnerable communities and uphold democratic discourse.
This report provides a comprehensive overview of the key trends and patterns identified through our ongoing monitoring efforts. The findings draw upon both qualitative and quantitative observations, alongside case study contributions from CESIE ETS, Greek Helsinki Monitor, ILGA Portugal, Jewish Association Czulent, and TransParente Portugal. The research highlights recurring narratives, targeted groups, and contextual triggers, while also identifying notable national specificities.
By compiling these insights, the report contributes to a broader understanding of how online hate manifests and adapts within local contexts. It further sheds light on policy developments, regulatory frameworks, and prevention efforts at both national and European levels.
Read the report (in English) by clicking here.
