#ichbinhier

HANNES LEY
#ichbinhier. Zusammen gegen Fake-News und Hass im Internet./
#iamhere. Together Against Fake News and Hate Speech on the In-ternet
Spring 2018, ca. 180 pp.

Prizewinner of the online Grimme-Award 2017

“We are not talking about counter-speech.
We are practising it.” - Hannes Ley

Using facts and friendliness to counter widespread trolling

Hate speech has had a long tradition on the Internet. In the beginning, it was bad enough that individuals were the main targets. But by now, we know that abusive remarks are potentially destructive for society, too. As well as coarsening the culture of debate, another serious consequence is the undermining of democracy.

Together with the 35,000-member Facebook group known as #ichbinhier (#iamhere) which he founded, Hannes Ley fights decisively against hatred on the web.
Whenever deliberate lies are disseminated, and people’s lowest instincts are ad-dressed – in the form of misogyny, xenophobia or hostility to others’ opinions,
#ichbinhier stands against the tide and positions itself against hate speech. It does this calmly, backed up with facts and without strong emotions. Because when fake news and hate speech come together and are left unchecked, a potential to divide society unfolds. With moral courage and mutual support, citizens can get involved and make a difference – Hannes Ley shows how they can succeed.