AZE.US
Concern is increasing in Azerbaijan over the spread of aggressive language, insults and hate speech across parts of the media landscape and social networks, according to recent discussions involving journalists and media experts.
Participants in the debate said public discourse is increasingly shifting from argument-based discussion toward personal attacks, threats and public humiliation, trends they warned could erode trust and weaken the culture of dialogue in society.
Analysts pointed to several contributing factors, including underlying social tensions, declining informal social restraints against abusive behavior, the rapid and largely uncontrolled distribution of online content, and the use of media platforms for personal, political or financial agendas.
Media professionals emphasized that freedom of expression does not eliminate responsibility, noting that criticism of public figures is legitimate but extending attacks to families or private lives falls outside accepted journalistic and ethical standards.
Particular concern was expressed about the exposure of young audiences to hostile online rhetoric, which experts say may shape behavior and social norms if left unaddressed.
Despite the warnings, some observers expressed cautious optimism that improvements in education, media literacy and civic awareness could help society develop resilience against hate speech and restore more constructive public dialogue.