Nationwide day of action: Police take action against hate online!

Nationwide day of action: Police take action against hate online!

Today, more than 180 measures against hatred and agitation on the internet have taken place across the country Radio lip reported. These actions mark the 12th day of action against offensive statements online, which is now established throughout Germany. The police implemented more than 65 search warrants and questioned numerous suspects who had to answer in more than 140 investigations.

The allegations against the defendants are serious and range from incitement to insults against politicians to the use of symbols of unconstitutional organizations. A particularly alarming result is that around two thirds of the criminal statements can be assigned to the right-wing spectrum. In this context, Interior Minister Herbert Reul (CDU) made it unmistakably clear that digital arson must not go unpunished. In North Rhine-Westphalia, around 14 proceedings are active as part of the day of action.

Increase in hate posts

There is no denying that the number of hate posts has skyrocketed in recent years. According to information from the Federal Criminal Police Office (BKA), an increase to over 10,732 registered cases was recorded between 2021 and 2024, which corresponds to a more than fourfold increase. How daily news emphasizes, this increase is partly explained by a better lightening of the dark field, for example through the redesign of reporting points for criminal content.

The results of a new nationwide study by HateAid and other organizations are particularly alarming, making it clear how widespread the fear of digital attacks is. More than half of internet users feel intimidated and are less likely to express their political opinions for fear of reprisals. Young women are particularly affected, and people with a visible migration background and queer people also often have to contend with threats of violence and insults. These findings underscore the need for action against the ever-increasing hatred online.

Social effects of digital violence

The spectrum of violence on the Internet is diverse and has not only psychological but also tangible social consequences. As the study shows, 49 percent of respondents have experienced online insults, while 25 percent have experienced physical violence and 13 percent have experienced sexual violence. The pressure on those affected to withdraw from public discourse is enormous: 57 percent of those surveyed say they are less likely to express their opinions because of online hate.

The worrying development not only suggests alarming individual fates, but also social problems. 82 percent of survey participants see the diversity of the Internet at risk, and 76 percent are convinced that violence in everyday life is increasing due to digital hatred. The demands on politicians and internet platforms are becoming louder: There are calls for better support for those affected, a nationwide network of advice centers and consistent application of existing laws.

The results of these studies are a clear wake-up call. Civil society and politics are called upon to create a safe digital environment. The implementation of a Digital Violence Protection Act, which was set out in the coalition agreement, could represent a first step in the right direction HateAid and highlight other organizations. Social cohesion is at stake, and it is up to all of us to take active action against hatred and hate speech online.