On the Path to a Democratic Digital Civil Society

The internet is the most widely used source of information, but it has also become a key platform for radicalization. In the wake of recent migration movements, the ugly side of the internet has come to the forefront: Many people openly spread unrestrained hate against refugees and their supporters, often using their real names without shame. Right-wing extremists and populists have strategically mastered the digital landscape, using it to spread hate against minorities and dissenters with fake news, memes, toxic narratives, and social bots. Their fabricated stories poison public discourse, and hate speech has become the norm in many online conversations.

The Amadeu Antonio Foundation promotes digital civil courage and a strong commitment to democratic values online. It analyzes the latest digital strategies employed by the enemies of democracy, offers anti-hate-speech training, and develops educational concepts for digital street work.

We cannot abandon the internet to the haters. Instead, it must become a space where the democracy of tomorrow is shaped.