Hate speech is a serious social problem, and its inadequate sanction further deepens the consequences for victims and communities. Research in the European Union and the region indicate a lack of training for professionals in the criminal system, which results in a weak understanding of fundamental concepts and hate speech concepts. Police officers, who are often first in contact with the victims, are often not trained enough about the importance of timely and adequate reaction. Their attitude and treatment in these cases are key not only for individual protection of victims, but also to prevent further hatred escalation and securing a safer society for all citizens.
Women in public life are especially endangered, which often become targets of hate speech and gender-based violence, and one of the most impressive examples in Bosnia and Herzegovina is the case of Amre Babić. She was the first chief of high in his history and the first principle in Europe that carries a hijab, which caused a strong public reaction. While one bragged her political engagement, others exhibited her with a brutal hate speech campaign. Organized groups of bots and their followers spread misinformation and offensive content through social networks and anonymous portals without impresum, which made it difficult to identify the source of false news. Sexistic and belittling comments aimed to discredit her as a woman in public office, which is part of a broader problem with which politicians in Bosnia and Herzegovina often face.
Research shows that women’s political participation is often a challenge for patriarchal political elites. Women in politics violate the status quo in the power nets where men dominate, and where the corruption and abuse of power are often present. Due to the rich political experience and confronting with different forms of attack, Amra Babić was chosen as an interlocutor on this topic.
Hate speech and gender-based violence often accompany election campaigns, serving as mechanisms of intimidation and discourage women in politics. Amra Babić was the target of brutal attacks, including direct threats and defamation.
“Modern technologies have enabled political opponents, but also cowards and weaknesses, without any consequences of the wider insult and misinformation. Even if you are a woman, then you are especially dear targets. There is no censorship on the internet, you have no opportunity to defend yourself. Over time, learn to look back, but never stops hurting. The hardest thing is when attacks focus on your family and friends who didn’t deserve such treatment. “
We asked her which is the biggest insult or threat sent during a political career:
“They called me a traitor, a thief, immoral, baccular car. But they never said I didn’t know how to work, that I was not persistent or giving up under pressure. The worst offense comes when the media includes the media and the so-called ‘free journalists’, most often for money and personal benefits. The biggest threats of my security was when I realized that I was following me even on private travels. There were also verbal attacks on the street, which is not harmless. “
The European Convention on Human Rights guarantees freedom of expression, but that freedom does not include hate speech and discrimination. Amra Babić tried to stand the end of the attacks, but the institutions reacted mildly or in no way, except in the case of a verbal attack in a public place that was sanctioned.
As Amra Babić explained, with this kind of violence was forced to fight alone, directly facing the attackers:
“I was never afraid of me. The worst thing that can happen is death, and once dies. “
Despite everything, Amra Babić returned to politics after a short break. The motifs of the return says:
“Politics enters you blood. After the 2020 elections. I was at a turning point, tried to return to life ten years ago, but I wasn’t happy without politics. For me, the meaning of life is not only working for salary – money is needed for basic needs, but the right pleasure comes from the community. That’s why I got back. I’m still an idealist. My biggest support is my family, then a few friends. And protection? Who can protect us? Just dear God. “
AMRA Babić has taken a turning point in Bosnia and Herzegovina, destroying the prejudices against women in politics. Her message to all women is:
“Raised heads, always forward, without looking back to the past. Without fear, with clear goals, confidently and brave through life. Life is the way, and the path means movement – some things, people and places have to stay behind our backs. We don’t regret missed occasions, let’s reap the new ones. Do what you love and love what you do. So you will be fulfilled and happy. And most importantly – Stay yours. “
Hate speech in Bosnia and Herzegovina leaves no consequences only on individuals, but also on the entire society. Only through the consistent application of the law, responsible media reporting and the promotion of tolerance can reduce the impact of hate speech and create a safer environment for all citizens.
