International Day for Countering Hate Speech

Next celebratedFriday, June 18, 2027

Join us in standing against hate speech on International Day for Countering Hate Speech - let's spread love and acceptance instead!

See how to celebrate

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Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar TeamHave an update or spot an error?

YEARLY DATEJune 18

OBSERVED INInternationally

CATEGORYAwareness

SUBCATEGORYSocial Justice

INTRO

Introduction

Get ready to raise your voice against hate speech on June 18, also known as International Day for Countering Hate Speech! This day was established by the United Nations in 2019 to combat the spread of hate speech and promote a more peaceful and inclusive world. It's an important reminder for all of us to stand up against discrimination and intolerance, and to spread messages of love and acceptance instead. So let's join together on this day to make a positive impact and promote unity among all people.

TIMELINE

International Day for Countering Hate Speech Timeline

Universal Declaration of Human Rights

The United Nations adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which implicitly condemns hate speech through its article on nondiscrimination and freedom of speech.

International Covenant on Civil Rights

This international law addresses individual's general comment to reject any advocacy of national, racial or religious hatred that constitutes incitement to discrimination, hostility or violence.

Online Hate Speech Recognition

The Internet's emergence necessitated recognizing online platforms as venues for hate speech proliferation, leading to calls for more regulation.

Rabat Plan of Action

UN experts drafted this comprehensive strategy for criminalizing the most dangerous instances of hate speech, while also protecting freedom of expression.

Social Media's Commitment

Heavyweight platforms like Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and Microsoft committed to the EU Code of Conduct on countering illegal online hate speech.

Establishment of Countering Hate Speech Day

The UN officially designates June 18 as International Day for Countering Hate Speech to combat rising levels of hatred and violence worldwide.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate International Day for Countering Hate Speech

Organize a community event

Bring your community together to discuss and raise awareness about hate speech. This could include organizing a panel of speakers, hosting a workshop, or organizing a rally or march against hate speech.

SPREAD

Spread positivity on social media

Use your social media platforms to spread positive messages and counter hate speech. Share inspirational quotes, stories of people standing up against hate speech, and resources for combatting it.

ATTEND

Attend a workshop or training

Educate yourself on how to recognize and respond to hate speech by attending a workshop or training. This could be through your workplace, school, or local organization.

SUPPORT

Support organizations fighting hate speech

Donate to or volunteer for organizations that work towards countering hate speech and promoting tolerance and acceptance.

HAVE

Have difficult conversations with friends and family

Use this day as an opportunity to have open and honest conversations with friends and family about the impact of hate speech and how to combat it. It may be uncomfortable, but it is an important step towards creating a more inclusive and accepting society.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why International Day for Countering Hate Speech is Important

Encourages accountability and action

By recognizing this day, we are reminded of our responsibility to combat hate speech and promote a more inclusive and tolerant society. It encourages individuals, communities, and governments to take action in countering hate speech and creating a safer world for all.

Promotes tolerance and understanding

International Day for Countering Hate Speech serves as a reminder to embrace diversity and promote unity. It encourages people to stand up against discrimination and hate speech, and instead foster empathy and understanding towards one another.

Raises awareness about the impact of hate speech

Hate speech can have serious consequences, leading to discrimination, violence, and even genocide. International Day for Countering Hate Speech helps educate people about the dangers of hate speech and emphasizes the importance of promoting peaceful and respectful communication.

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