Media Reporting and Reference Guide on LGBT Issues

fact can often be remembered despite the person concerned having been subsequently
acquitted. There is also a need for care to be exercised in reporting some events, particularly
those involving extremists or terrorists, since sensationalising them <strong>and</strong> focusing on drama
can inadvertently strengthen prejudices <strong>and</strong> inflame passions.
139. In addition, consideration should be being given to whether or not certain events
involving those frequently stigmatised are only being reported because those reporting them
share the negative perceptions of them, as well as to whether persons hostile to such groups
are effectively given privileged access to certain outlets. Similarly, the conditions of use for
web fora <strong>and</strong> similar services might preclude the use of anonymous comments. In addition,
they might also preclude access at night-time where this possibility is seen to facilitate the
posting of offensive comments. Moreover, reports concerning events involving or of concern
to persons who are frequently targeted by the use of hate speech – such as those reporting
their involvement in some alleged disorder or dispute – often do not give their view on the
circumstances concerned <strong>and</strong> thus allow the reinforcement of misinformation <strong>and</strong> negative
stereotyping to go unchallenged. Furthermore, such stereotyping <strong>and</strong> stigmatisation could
also be challenged by the publication of reports showing persons belonging to groups of
persons targeted by hate speech in a positive light, such as ones dealing with their successful
integration or explaining the values underpinning particular traditions. <strong>Reporting</strong> of this kind
could be facilitated by encouragement for the development of tools such as the glossary for
journalists on integration that explains certain key terms, which was noted in a monitoring
cycle. In this way, the codes could encourage the media to develop counter narratives to the
‘rationale’ that underpins the use of hate speech.
Monitoring
140. A crucial aspect of self-regulation is the monitoring of what is being communicated by
media <strong>and</strong> through the Internet. This is of general importance but it is especially necessary
where this has not been subject to any form of editorial control. Even where there are
codes of conduct (or ethics), monitoring is not always undertaken systematically. This is
notably so in respect of the use of hate speech on the Internet. However, as some services
on the Internet have shown, there are various automatic techniques available to search for
hate speech <strong>and</strong> these can be complemented by specific facilities to report its use <strong>and</strong> the
material in question can then be removed in accordance with the service’s conditions of
use. Such schemes should be emulated <strong>and</strong>, wherever possible, they should be encouraged
by regulatory authorities. In addition, research into enhancing their effectiveness should be
encouraged by regulatory bodies. Furthermore, individual users should be encouraged to
report uses of hate speech <strong>and</strong> non-governmental organisations should be supported in the
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