Pathways to address online racism
This policy brief outlines the current state of online racism and ways in which relevant stakeholder groups can identify solutions to it.
Summary
This policy brief details how racism online harms First Peoples and other communities with lived experience of racism.
Online racism is enabled and amplified by misinformation and disinformation, platform design and the lack of accountability mechanisms across platforms and existing laws. Online racism causes significant individual and collective harm. Effective responses require a rights-based approach that combines a proactive digital duty of care by platforms, strengthened anti-discrimination laws and action on misinformation and disinformation that balances the freedom of expression.
How does racism affect online spaces?
Racism makes online spaces unsafe and harmful for many people. Many people encounter racism most often on social media and other digital platforms. Racism online often increases when issues about race and racism receive media or political attention. Such content can amplify hate speech, encourage hostility and reinforce harmful stereotypes.
Who is most impacted by online racism and hate speech?
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and other communities with lived experience of racism are disproportionately targeted by online racism and hate speech. They experience high levels of online harassment and racist content that target their backgrounds. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults are around twice as likely as non‑Indigenous adults to experience online hate. The harm is even greater when racism overlaps with other forms of discrimination, such as sexism or ableism.
Why is misinformation and disinformation a problem in online racism?
Misinformation and disinformation can make the impacts worse by spreading false or misleading narratives that justify racism, and in some cases encourage violence. Misinformation and disinformation can legitimise racist ideas and make them seem credible. False claims are often shared widely online and can fuel racial vilification and division. When left unchallenged, these narratives can shape public attitudes and increase harm to affected communities.
What can be done to address online racism?
Addressing online racism requires a rights‑based approach. Digital platforms need proactive safeguards to assess and reduce how their systems contribute to harm. This includes better detection of hate speech, limiting how racist content is amplified and providing clear and accessible ways for people to report harm. Fact‑checking and counter‑speech initiatives that directly challenge racist content also play an important role, especially when led by trusted voices with lived experience.
Why isn’t content moderation alone enough?
Responding to online racism should go beyond reactive moderation. A broader strategy is needed, combining platform accountability, education and community empowerment. This approach helps ensure that everyone, regardless of background, can participate safely and equally in online spaces.
How does freedom of expression fit into addressing online racism?
A safe online environment requires robust protections against racism and balanced protections of freedom of speech and expression. Ensuring a free, safe and anti-racist online environment is a key part of building a healthy democratic society. A rights‑based approach balances protecting people from racist harm while allowing open debate, criticism and discussion of ideas. Measures must be proportionate and transparent, with safeguards to ensure that efforts to limit harmful content do not silence diverse voices or prevent meaningful conversations about racism and equality.
Download the policy brief
Pathways to address online racism
This policy brief details how racism online harms and effective responses to address it.