Statement by India at the High-level panel discussion on countering the negative impact of disinformation on the enjoyment and realization of human rights and on ensuring a human rights-based response at the 50^th Session of the Human Rights Council
(13^th June – 8^th July 2022)

[Geneva, 28^th June, 2022]

Mr. President,

We believe that the most effective way to counter disinformation, hate speech and prevent incitement to discrimination is to promote an environment that guarantees pluralism, democracy and freedom. The legitimate exercise of the right to freedom of opinion and expression can play an important and positive role in strengthening democracy, promoting pluralism and combating intolerance. We believe that States should take necessary steps to prevent and combat disinformation in order to protect the right of the people of freedom of speech and expression.

Mr. President

New media, especially social media, has increasingly emerged as a platform for various actors, including terrorists, for amplifying their malicious propaganda and falsehoods. Coupled with adverse effects of Covid pandemic, there has been a rise in hate speech intended to create disharmony amongst and within communities. The ICT companies, have a critical role to play in checking and countering disinformation, hate speech and incitement of hostility and violence.

The instances of malicious use of modern technologies to the detriment of our societies are increasing and we need to act together to counter them so that the new and emerging technologies are harnessed for global good, including promotion and protection of human rights.

We have witnessed some States, for achieving their political and security-related objectives, indulging in contemporary forms of cross-border terrorism, attacks on critical national infrastructure, including health and energy facilities, and disrupt social harmony through promoting radicalization through the online space. Open societies, including democracies like ours, have been particularly vulnerable to such threats and disinformation campaigns. Emerging digital technologies, have the potential to enhance the lethality of such acts, thus posing a considerable threat to international peace and security. There international community cannot take a selective approach and needs to avoid double standards, when it comes to addressing these threats.

It is our considered submission that our goal of fighting the menace of disinformation, hate speech and violence on social media can be realized only through a sincere, committed and collective effort on the part of the entire international community.

I thank you Mr. President.