Preventing Hate Speech: Three Training Sessions at Vilnius Žvėrynas Gymnasium

On 19 December, the European Foundation of Human Rights (EFHR) conducted three training sessions for 12th-grade students at Vilnius Žvėrynas Gymnasium dedicated to recognising and countering hate speech.

The workshops examined legal approaches to hate speech under Lithuanian, European, and international standards. Particular attention was paid to the limits of freedom of expression, interpretative criteria used in legal practice, and the legal responsibility arising from hate speech-related conduct.

Students demonstrated a high level of engagement, actively contributing to discussions on the practical assessment of hate speech cases.

The sessions were complemented by a practical quiz, where students analyzed various situations reflecting everyday communication and legal standards. Participants with the highest scores were awarded symbolic prizes.

Each session concluded with an open discussion, during which students reflected on current forms of hate speech, reporting mechanisms, and the role of individual responsibility in promoting respectful and inclusive communication, both online and offline, emphasizing awareness, dialogue, and mutual respect.