The UN launches the Muscat Plan of Action to combat hate speech and prevent genocide

June 11, 2026 Human rights

“Hate speech is a serious and growing threat to peace and security. Itdivides society, ‘dehumanizes entire groups of people and creates a ground for bloodshed,’ said Guterres.

According to him, hateful rhetoric does not arise by chance and is a characteristic element of almost every scenario leading to genocide and mass crimes.

Role of local leaders and communities

“Conflicts rage all over the world. Inequality is intensifying. The climate crisis is escalating. And the language of hatred spreads faster than ever before, fueled by unregulated platforms and artificial intelligence capabilities,” the UN chief noted.

The Secretary-General emphasized that the primary responsibility for preventing genocide and other mass atrocities lies with the state, but society as a whole also plays an important role. A special place in this work, according to him, belongs to traditional leaders and representatives of indigenous peoples, who enjoy the trust of local communities and possess deep knowledge of local realities.

“Your authority and influence can help reduce tension before it escalates into violence,” he addressed the participants of the event.

Directions of actions

The document is the result of a long-standing international consultative process involving traditional leaders, representatives of indigenous peoples, governments, international organizations, and experts on conflict prevention from around the world. Work on it began at a global consultation in Abuja, Nigeria, in 2022 and continued at a meeting in the capital of Oman, Muscat, in 2023, which became one of the largest international platforms for exchanging experience among traditional leaders and representatives of indigenous peoples.

The plan is based on three key directions: strengthening the potential of local intermediaries and training programs, developing dialogue and mutual understanding between communities, as well as expanding cooperation among traditional leaders, states, international organizations, and civil society.

Among the document’s recommendations are support for local initiatives on conflict resolution, expansion of educational programs, development of early warning mechanisms, countering misinformation and hate narratives, as well as more active involvement of local communities in peacebuilding processes.

Responsibility of digital platforms

The Secretary-General also emphasized the necessity of strengthening the responsibility of digital platforms for the dissemination of content related to hate speech and incitement to violence.

“Restraining hate speech does not mean suppressing freedom of speech. At the same time, freedom of expression of opinions should never serve as a justification for spreading harmful messages,” he noted.

The UN expects that the Muscat Action Plan will become a practical tool for strengthening social cohesion, preventing conflicts, and expanding the participation of local communities in efforts to build a sustainable world.

“Together we can build inclusive, just, and peaceful societies that everyone deserves,” concluded Guterres.