Is that still opinion or already hate?

Hate speech online doesn't stop at anyone, and young people are often affected too. Important for parents to know: What are harmless arguments between young people and where are the boundaries of decency and fairness in terms of criminal law crossed?

As the «EU Kids Online» study published by the Schwyz University of Teacher Education in 2019 shows, the phenomenon of hate speech is widespread among young people. 24 per cent of the young people surveyed stated that they had been the victim of hate speech online. And 21 per cent have seen hate speech directed against certain groups or people. 5 per cent admitted to having spread hate online themselves.
The question parents need to ask themselves when their daughter or son complains about hate speech: Is this still a normal argument between adolescents that is being aired in public, or is the post going too far? For some, a negative comment about a person online falls under freedom of expression and should therefore be protected, while for others the threshold for discrimination or racism is quickly crossed. Perhaps it helps to remember the definition of hate: «Hate is an intense feeling of dislike and hostility,» says Wikipedia.

Tangible consequences

If a derogatory, malicious comment is aimed at gender (girls are more frequently attacked because of their gender and appearance), religion, skin colour, origin, sexual orientation, appearance or disability, it is hate speech and no longer freedom of expression. In Switzerland, several articles of the Swiss Criminal Code protect against hate speech. Younger offenders in particular (female offenders are rarer) should be made aware that such comments can have serious consequences.
In my opinion, criminal charges should only be the last resort. The first thing to do - if possible and if the perpetrator is known to the victim - is to activate the network of relationships. Involve teachers so that they can discuss what is happening in the classroom and draw up rules together. In very difficult situations, teachers can call in other experts. Penal consequences for young people should be the last resort. However, if boundaries are repeatedly crossed, legal measures are appropriate to protect those affected.

On Medienstark you will find tips and interactive learning modules for the competent use of digital media in everyday family life. swisscom.ch/medienstark