This submission responds to the Prevention and Combatting of Hate Crimes and Hate Speech Bill, presenting civil society's views on the appropriate legal framework for addressing hate speech while protecting constitutional free expression rights.

The document critically examines the Bill's definitions and scope, warning against overly broad provisions that could chill legitimate speech. It argues that effective hate speech legislation must be narrowly and precisely drawn to target genuine incitement to hatred and violence.

Key recommendations include refining the legal definition of hate speech, ensuring proportionate criminal penalties, and complementing the legislation with education and community dialogue programmes to address the underlying drivers of prejudice and discrimination.