On 3 April, the Open Method of Coordination (OMC) Group on the Fight Against Hate Speech in Sport held its second meeting. The group has begun its work with a comprehensive mapping exercise, using a questionnaire distributed to Member States. This aims to assess the current landscape, identify manifestations of hate speech in sport, and collect examples of effective practices. Preliminary findings reveal a wide range of national approaches, particularly in terms of how hate speech is addressed in legislation. Key priorities emerging from the survey include strengthening cooperation with social media platforms and enhancing educational and youth-focused programmes to prevent hate speech at an early stage. Dedicated working groups will now focus on the legal framework, the various forms and manifestations of hate speech, the sharing of good practices, and strategies for prevention and future action.
The group’s next meeting is scheduled for September/October 2025, where members will share progress and define further steps forward.