Cascais: UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres warned that unchecked social media networks and artificial intelligence (AI) are amplifying the darkest aspects of human nature, giving hate speech unprecedented speed and reach. Addressing the United Nations’ Alliance of Civilisations (UNAOC) 10th Global Forum in Portugal, Guterres stated that these digital platforms, combined with AI, have allowed misinformation and hate to spread faster and wider than ever before, often leading to real-world violence.
He emphasized that the proliferation of deepfake technology has made it easier for false information to gain credibility quickly, making it a dangerous tool for spreading prejudice, including anti-Semitism, anti-Muslim sentiment, and attacks on minority Christian communities.
Guterres described social media and AI as a “new medium” for perpetuating age-old forms of hatred and discrimination. He called for urgent action to combat online hate speech and disinformation, stressing that the responsibility lies with governments and tech platforms to curb these harmful trends.
In addition to addressing digital issues, Guterres reiterated his calls for peace in conflict zones such as Gaza, Lebanon, Ukraine, and Sudan. He urged the global community to uphold cultural diversity, religious pluralism, and mutual respect.
The UNAOC was founded in 2005 with the goal of promoting intercultural dialogue and understanding, with the support of the Spanish and Turkish governments. This year’s forum brought together leaders, diplomats, and international organizations to discuss pressing global issues, running from November 25 to 27.
