Georgian Parliament Vice Speaker: hate speech fuels polarisation and radicalisation

Georgia’s First Vice Speaker of Parliament Giorgi Kakhiani on Thursday said hate speech was not a challenge unique to Georgia, arguing that it fuels confrontation, tension and radicalisation in society, making it the state's responsibility to address the issue.

In his interview with Imedi TV, Kakhiani stressed that combating hate speech should not be confused with restricting freedom of expression.

“The reality is that hate speech is not a challenge unique to our country. It is a challenge faced by many countries because expressions of hatred lead to confrontation, social tension and radicalisation, all of which have a very negative impact on society. That is why it is the state's responsibility to take steps to counter hate speech. At the same time, when discussing this issue, we must not forget what stands on the other side, freedom of expression. Freedom of expression and hate speech should not be confused”, Kakhiani said.

According to Kakhiani, freedom of expression does not include the right to spread hate, and Georgian legislation clearly distinguishes between the two.

He also highlighted the mechanisms established to monitor such offences, saying similar practices were standard across democratic societies.

“There are challenges that we need to overcome. At first, these measures may seem new to society. For example, a dedicated unit has been established to monitor such offences and respond accordingly. We need to get used to this. It is normal. People should not be insulted or subjected to hateful language. This is considered an offence in any democratic and civilised country. EU member states also respond to such violations”, he said.

Kakhiani added that social media was a public space and claimed that certain groups were trying to normalise hate speech in order to deepen divisions and radicalise society.

According to him, the ultimate aim was to create tensions that could potentially lead to a forceful change of Government.