DIGITAL EDUCATION AND MEDIA LITERACY AS TOOLS TO COMBAT HATE SPEECH

Abstract

This article analyzes the potential of digital education and media and information literacy (MIL) as strategic tools to combat the proliferation of online hate speech. Initially, it contextualizes hate speech in the digital age, highlighting how the speed of dissemination, anonymity, and the algorithmic architecture of social networks amplify narratives of intolerance, causing psychological, social, and democratic impacts. The text then defines digital education as the development of competencies for the critical and responsible use of technologies , and MIL as the set of skills to access, analyze, evaluate, and create content consciously. It is argued that, unlike purely punitive measures, these educational approaches act preventively, enabling citizens to identify and resist hateful content, disinformation, and manipulation. The article explores the implementation of digital education and MIL programs in various spheres, such as schools, universities, and civil society, pointing to the importance of robust public policies to overcome challenges like the lack of infrastructure and teacher training. It concludes that investing in these areas is fundamental to strengthening individual resilience and building a safer, more inclusive, and democratic internet.