Published: 12:44 AM, 22 June 2026
All out efforts to tackle hate speech underscored
Speakers at a seminar organized by PEN Bangladesh have asserted that the rise of liberal think-tanks and benevolent endeavours from people with moderate sentiments is imperative to efficiently deal with the formidable challenge posed by hate speech.
It was emphasized during the seminar that tackling hate speech is not just a legal or technological issue; rather it needs participation from political parties, statecraft and social segments to protect ordinary masses from the adverse impact of racism, inequalities and malicious approaches.
The seminar was organized at Dhanmondi in Dhaka city on Saturday (20 June 2026). PEN executive member and author Muhammad Mohiuddin, Professor Ainun Nahar from Anthropology Department, Jahangirnagar University, Professor Rafiqul Islam from Department of Peace and Conflict Studies, Dhaka University, Desh Rupantor Editor Mustafiz Shafi, PEN Bangladesh Vice President Parvez Hossain, teacher and poet Shameem Reza and Assistant Professor Abanti Harun from University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh (ULAB) expressed their views at the meeting.
ULAB Vice Chancellor Professor Shamsad Mortuza joined the event virtually.
The participants of the program laid emphasis on cultural awareness and strong social actions to restrain the spread of hate speech. They upheld the importance of reciprocal ideological tolerance, compassion, logical standpoints and using humanistic language.
The discussants said during the program that statements representing opposite beliefs should be addressed with generosity. At the same time it's vital to stop rumours and false propaganda on social networking sites, the dignitaries commented.
