Statement by H.E. Mr. Paruyr Hovhannisyan, Permanent Representative of Armenia to the UN, at the High-Level Event on International Day for Countering Hate Speech

Mr. Chair,

I wish to express my sincere appreciation for convening the High-Level Meeting in Commemoration of the International Day to Counter Hate Speech, focusing on the critical theme of the intersections between artificial intelligence and hate speech.

Amid rising xenophobia, racism, and religious intolerance, hate speech in all its forms, particularly when directed at ethnic and religious groups and encouraged by state leaders, often fuels violence and conflict, undermining the core values and principles upon which the United Nations is founded. Several days ago, Special Adviser Gamba rightly noted that the "hate speech can lead to deadly roads". We are convinced that in most cases, extreme forms of hate speech are clear precursors for atrocity crimes. Perpetrators use new technologies, including AI.

Today, reliable digital evidence may also positively contribute to accountability for violations and abuses, ICT tools can be widely used for distance monitoring in number of humanitarian settings, conflict and post-conflict situations. At the same time, while AI presents tremendous potential for enhancing early warning mechanisms and conflict prevention, it is increasingly being weaponized to disseminate disinformation, reinforce harmful stereotypes, and incite hatred. Tackling hate speech in AI-generated content requires strong international cooperation and multistakeholder approach in full compliance with international law, as reconfirmed by the Member States in the Global Digital Compact.

Armenia remains firmly committed to advancing the prevention agenda, including addressing hate speech, both online and offline, recognizing the risks it poses to escalating violence, undermining regional stability, and deepening mistrust. In this regard, we acknowledge the essential role of the Special Adviser to the Secretary-General on the Prevention of Genocide in advancing the UN'S efforts to combat hate speech, in line with the UN Strategy and Plan of Action on Hate Speech.

Armenia continues to invest considerable efforts not only for consolidation of its legislative and policy frameworks for fighting hate speech and hate crimes but also for developing professional capacities among law enforcement system and raising awareness among general public, policy makers and community leaders.

Empowering young people to confront the multifaceted and interconnected challenges of hate speech, intolerance, and discrimination is of utmost importance. Given their unprecedented access to online platforms, digital knowledge and awareness of pressing global issues, young people have the potential to significantly shape public discourse, foster meaningful intercultural dialogue, and promote narratives grounded in mutual respect.

Mr. Chair,

Effectively addressing hate speech in the age of AI requires a holistic, inclusive, and human-rights-based approach. It includes responsible governance of digital technologies, investment in education and digital literacy, and active youth engagement through civic participation, advocacy and innovative solutions.

In conclusion, Armenia stands ready to contribute to the global effort in the fight against hate speech, including in digital spaces and to foster the responsible use of emerging technologies in support of the broader prevention agenda aimed at promoting peace and protecting human dignity worldwide.

I thank you.