Emmanuel Joof, the chairman of the National Human Rights Commission, has encouraged political leaders to prioritize the promotion of national unity and refrain from making divisive statements.
Chairman Joof addressed a hate speech training session organized by the Commission for representatives of the Independent Electoral Commission and the Inter-party Committee. He stated, “As we approach the 2026 presidential elections, the NHRC also wishes to remind all political leaders, their parties, and politicians of the Peace Accord they signed. We urge them to reduce their rhetoric, conduct their affairs in a peaceful manner, and refrain from utterances that are divisive and have the potential to incite disunity and hatred.”
He further stated that the IEC, IPC, CCE, and CSOs all play a critical role in the enhancement of “our democracy and the development of an environment in which we can coexist in peace and harmony, despite our differences.”
“By fostering a culture of mutual understanding, dignity, and respect, we can collectively have a substantial impact.” I urge you to participate actively, contribute your perspectives, and learn from one another as we collaborate to achieve a shared objective. In summary, it is important to bear in mind that our current endeavors will contribute to a more harmonious and inclusive society. We are making a significant stride toward a future in which every individual is valued and respected by acquiring the knowledge and skills necessary to prevent hate speech,” he continued.
Hate speech
Chairman Joof defined hate speech as any form of communication, whether spoken, written, or behavioral, that disparages or discriminates against individuals or groups on the basis of attributes such as race, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, disability, or other characteristics.
“Its objective is to undermine social harmony and perpetuate inequality and division by inciting hatred, violence, or prejudicial actions.” It is impossible to overstate the seriousness of hate speech. It has the potential to incite violence, foster discrimination, and undermine social cohesion. Joof also stated that it has an impact on individuals and communities, which in turn perpetuates divisions and undermines the very foundation of our society.
He also stated that the United Nations has noted that hate speech has served as a precursor to atrocities over the past 75 years, such as the genocide perpetrated by the Nazis against the Jews, the genocide against the Tutsis in Rwanda, the genocide against the Rohingya Muslim population in Myanmar, and Bosnia in Cambodia.
“It is essential that we proactively and comprehensively address hate speech as individuals and institutions committed to promoting inclusivity, respect, and understanding.” He stated that the purpose of our workshop today is to equip you with a comprehensive framework for recognizing, preventing, and responding to hate speech in your respective workplaces, as well as in your advocacy and awareness-raising responsibilities.
The training concentrated on a number of critical areas, including the following: the comprehension of hate speech, legal and ethical frameworks, best practices for prevention, the integration of anti-hate speech measures into projects, the development of resilient communities, collaboration, and partnerships.
Although unrelated, Mr. Joof’s remarks could not have been more timely, as President Barrow was facing significant criticism for remarks directed at opposition leader Ousainu Darboe that were deemed unwarranted and unpresidential by the majority of Gambians.