The Prime Minister of Spain, Pedro Sánchez presented a new system for analyzing hate speech on the Internet called HODIO. It is a tool that will analyze how hate messages are spread on social networks and what role the platforms’ algorithms play in that.
The presentation of the system was held in Madrid during the first international summit dedicated to the fight against hate speech and digital harassment. The initiative is part of a broader strategy of the Spanish government aimed at stronger control of digital platforms and better protection of users.
HODIO analyzes the spread of hate speech on the Internet
The HODIO system aims to collect and analyze large amounts of publicly available data from social networks in order to monitor the dynamics of the spread of hate speech and polarizing messages.
Based on this data, indicators will be created that will show the intensity, reach and development of hate speech over time. The analysis should enable the identification of patterns of dissemination of such content and a better understanding of how social network algorithms can contribute to digital polarization.
According to the Spanish Prime Minister, social networks have significantly changed the way hate speech spreads in society.
“Hate speech is already dangerous in itself, and social media has turned it into a weapon of mass polarization that spills over into everyday life,” Sánchez said.
The EU warns of the limits of regulation of social networks
The introduction of the HODIO system is part of Spain’s broader policy aimed at increasing safety on the Internet, especially when it comes to minor users.
In early February, the Spanish government also announced a plan to ban access to social networks for under-16s, which would force platforms to introduce stricter age verification systems.
However, the European Commission has warned member states that national measures for the regulation of social networks should not exceed the framework of common European legislation, especially the rules defined in the Digital Services Act, reports EuroNews.