April 2024 – February 2026
€298.800,61
The project is funded by the European Commission (ID: 101143124), has a duration of 24 months and brings together six (6) partners (Universities, Research Centers, Law Enforcement Authorities) from three (3) European Member States, to deal with hate crimes and hate speech.
Hate speech and hate crimes pose a serious problem in the European Union since they have been increasing at an alarming rate in recent years and threaten the safety not only of individuals but of society in general. The Covid pandemic and the war in Ukraine have contributed to further polarization and the spread of racist, xenophobic and bigoted discourse and conspiracy theories. The development of technology and the internet have contributed to the further spread of hate speech which motivates violence and attacks in real life. In Cyprus, according to a report by the European Union against Racism and Intolerance, hate speech and hate crimes have increased recording incidents against various social groups including immigrants, refugees and members of the LGBTQ+ community.
All forms of expression of hatred are incompatible with the values that the European Union stands for. Hate affects the individual as well as the group to which he belongs, creates social polarization, silences large sections of the population, weakens pluralism and undermines public democratic debate. Hate crimes also violate the fundamental rights of the victims such as dignity, equality, non-discrimination and freedom of expression.
Key to the protection of victims of hate crimes and hate speech and their fundamental rights is cooperation between law enforcement authorities, civil society and other stakeholders. The Police as a law enforcement authority are the first point of contact for many victims of hate crimes and their priority is to prevent such crimes. However, in case of their commission, he must investigate them, identify the offenders and bring them to justice.
The NoHate Police project aims to combat hate speech and hate crimes by enhancing the knowledge and expertise of Law Enforcement (Police) personnel through effective methods. Specifically, it aims to strengthen the Police in:
• Effective investigation and prosecution of crimes of violence
• Understanding the basis, context and specific characteristics of violent crimes EUROPEAN UNION
• Inculcation of knowledge of domestic legislation regarding hate crimes
• Contribution to crime prevention
• Encouraging cooperation and respect of the public with the Police Authorities
• Creating constructive links with threatened social groups
• Ensure the application and protection of human rights and non-discrimination by the Police
In addition to the above, it is expected to create a comprehensive and documented training curriculum and an e-learning platform that will enhance the knowledge of Police officers in dealing with hate crimes and hate speech.
