Morocco's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Nasser Bourita, co-chaired the Global Conference to Combat Hate Speech with UN Secretary-General and President of the UN General Assembly on September 20, 2026, in New York. The conference aimed to promote dialogue, tolerance, and social cohesion to prevent hate speech. Morocco, the UN Office for the Prevention of Genocide and Responsibility to Protect, and the UN Alliance of Civilizations jointly organized the event.
In his opening speech, Bourita emphasized that the Moroccan initiative to organize the conference reflects the country's commitment to promoting dialogue, tolerance, and coexistence. He highlighted the importance of collective action to combat hate speech, which can be fueled by ignorance, prejudices, and socio-economic vulnerabilities. The Minister also warned against the dangers of normalizing hate speech and the need for leaders to take responsibility.
Bourita stressed that Morocco's commitment to combating hate speech is rooted in its history and institutions. The country's constitution enshrines a unified and inclusive national identity, open to universal values. He also highlighted the role of the Moroccan monarchy in promoting tolerance and coexistence, citing the country's experience in hosting different religious and ethnic groups.
The conference aimed to identify practical steps to combat hate speech and promote tolerance. Bourita outlined five priorities for collective action, including education, promoting interfaith and intercultural dialogue, and preventing hate speech in the digital space. He also emphasized the need for leaders to promote responsible speech and for institutions to take action against hate speech.
The Moroccan initiative is part of a broader effort to promote dialogue and tolerance globally. Bourita noted that Morocco has played a leading role in promoting UN resolutions to combat hate speech, including a resolution on promoting interfaith and intercultural dialogue. He also highlighted the country's experience in promoting coexistence and tolerance at the national level.
The conference brought together representatives from governments, international organizations, civil society, and the private sector to discuss ways to combat hate speech. Bourita emphasized that protecting human dignity is essential for security and that coexistence requires ongoing commitment and collective responsibility. He expressed Morocco's commitment to continuing its efforts to combat hate speech.
The event concluded with a call to action for governments, institutions, and individuals to work together to combat hate speech. The conference highlighted the need for a collective and sustained effort to promote tolerance, dialogue, and coexistence. Morocco's efforts to promote dialogue and tolerance have been recognized globally, and the country is committed to continuing its role in promoting a more inclusive and respectful world.
Key points
- Morocco co-hosted a global conference with the UN to combat hate speech by promoting interfaith and intercultural dialogue.
- The conference aimed to promote dialogue, tolerance, and social cohesion to prevent hate speech.
- Morocco has played a leading role in promoting UN resolutions to combat hate speech.
