On the occasion of the 71st Session of the United Nations General Assembly, the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC) announces the organization of a side event on 15 September at the United Nations Headquarters in New York entitled, “Combating xenophobic language in the media and fostering inclusive integration of migrants and refugees.” The side event is co-sponsored by the European Union, the International Organization for Migration, and the Permanent Mission of Malta to the United Nations.
In keeping with its mission to promote dialogue between cultures, civilizations, faiths, and peoples, UNAOC is organizing this side event to create a platform for Member States, media experts, advocates, activists, policy-makers and other stakeholders to share experiences and good practices to prevent and counter hate speech against refugees and migrants, strengthen the collective resolve to combat xenophobia, and build partnerships with different actors that are committed to preventing discrimination and promoting peace, respect and inclusion.
As part of this side event, particular emphasis has been placed on engaging the global media space and journalists, particularly those who are well positioned to report on xenophobia, hate speech, violent extremism and prejudice. Other participants include UN officials, representatives of online social networking services, academics, and NGOs. UNAOC also invites the general public to participate in the discussion by sharing comments and questions using the hashtag #SpreadNoHate.
At the conclusion of the event, UNAOC will produce a report, which will include a set of concrete recommendations.
UNAOC Contacts:
Mr. Thibault Chareton: thibaultc@unops.org
Ms. Nathalie Guillaume: NathalieG@unops.org