The "Introductory Course on the UN Strategy and Plan of Action on Hate Speech” is a unique self-paced learning module developed by the UN Office of the Special Adviser on the Prevention of Genocide in cooperation with the UN System Staff College. This online course has been designed to equip UN staff with the tools and knowledge needed to confront the critical challenge of hate speech in today’s world.

Introduction

The UN Strategy and Plan of Action on Hate Speech, launched by the Secretary-General in June 2019, aims to give the United Nations(UN) the room and the resources to address hate speech, which poses a threat to UN principles, values and programmes. It guides the UN system on how to address hate speech and includes ways to support UN Resident Coordinators’ action in addressing and countering hate speech on the ground.

Objectives

This online course is designed to develop and strengthen UN staff members’ awareness and understanding of hate speech as well as holistic efforts within the UN system to combat it in line with human rights law and standards. It provides practical insights into the UN Strategy and Plan of Action on Hate Speech, including its 13 commitments, equipping UN colleagues with actionable steps to combat hate speech in their work.

Course methodology

This self-paced online course combines dynamic learning methods with a case studies and knowledge checks to allow you to dive into the key components of the UN Strategy and Plan of Action on Hate Speech and the specific actions that UN entities can take to implement the 13 commitments.

The course is hosted on UNSSC's Blue Line learning platform, which allows participants a high degree of flexibility to access content at their own pace, from anywhere and at any time.

By registering for this free module, you will also get free access to other free tools and modules on the Blue Line platform.

Course contents

This online course consists of three elements: 

  1. An introduction and resources page, which includes the learning objectives as well as all materials related to the UN Strategy and Plan of Action on Hate Speech. 
  2. Three (3) interactive lessons on the different levels of hate speech, the UN Strategy and Plan of Action on Hate Speech (objectives, principles and its implementation), and its 13 commitments to action by the UN system.
  3. A final assessment designed to reinforce your learning and support application of key takeaways”.
Target audience

UN personnel at all levels.

Cost of participation

Free for UN personnel.