Prevention of hate speech during the elections: raising awareness among students in Beni
In the context of the looming elections, it is essential to raise public awareness about the prevention of hate speech. It is with this in mind that students from various university institutions in the city of Beni, located in the province of North Kivu in the Democratic Republic of Congo, were invited to a political café organized by the Political Affairs section of MONUSCO. (United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo).
The electoral history of the DRC has unfortunately often been marked by social unrest and hate speech. Thus, the supervisor Adam Muli insisted on the importance of raising students’ awareness so that they do not fall into the mistakes of the past. According to him, students are often targeted by electoral candidates, hence the importance of educating them on the prevention of such speeches.
During this political café, various aspects were discussed. Nixon Muhindo, a member of the Student Representation of Congo (REC), emphasized non-violence and the peaceful resolution of conflicts. He stressed that students have the right to be candidates or to support candidates, but they must avoid any action that could create adversity within the university environment.
Samuel Tsamambi, coordinator of the REC, meanwhile called for tolerance among students during this pre-election period. He insisted that politics should not divide the students, because after the campaign, life must go on and it is essential to preserve unity and brotherhood among all.
This awareness initiative brought together around twenty students from the city of Beni. By educating them on the prevention of hate speech, it is hoped to contribute to a more peaceful and respectful electoral climate.
The engagement of young students in the electoral process is crucial, and it is essential to sensitize them to the importance of a healthy political debate, where differences of opinion are respected and where mutual respect prevails