The Recommendation CM/Rec(2022)16 of the Committee of Ministers on combating hate speech is now available in Macedonian language. The Recommendation was adopted during the annual session in Turin in May 2022 and the document calls on governments to develop comprehensive strategies to prevent and fight hate speech.

The Recommendation starts from the premise that hate speech is a deep-rooted, complex and multi-dimensional phenomenon, it provides a working definition of hate speech which distinguishes different levels in accordance to their gravity and calls for implementing adequately calibrated and proportionate measures. It is also recommended to the governments to adopt an effective legal and policy framework covering criminal, civil and administrative law, and to set up and implement alternative measures, including awareness-raising, education, the use of counter and alternative speech. Governments are also encouraged to set up support mechanisms to assist those targeted by hate speech, conduct monitoring, and engage in international co-operation and national co-ordination.

Guidance is also provided to other relevant stakeholders who are crucial in the process of preventing and combating hate speech, including public officials, elected bodies and political parties, internet intermediaries, media and civil society organisations.