Freedom of Expression and Sexist Hate Speech: Where is the Boundary?

Abstract

The paper aims at analysing Sexist Hate Speech, both online and off-line, by characterising the phenomenon under different points of view, providing a comprehensive conspectus of a number of definitions which take into account different aspects of the issue. In particular, a number of factors causing and affecting sexist hate speech are reported, together with a portrait of the different forms that the language of hate may assume such as blatant, covert, and subtle sexism. Besides, an analysis of the boundaries between what constitutes freedom of expression on one hand, and what can be considered as sexist hate speech on the other is provided, with a particular focus on the most relevant articles included in the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR). Another crucial aspect addressed in the current paper deals with the main targets of sexist hate speech, together with an analysis of the causes leading to the use of an abusive and violent language towards certain categories of women, particularly, feminists and human rights defenders. The work also presents a comparative overview of the most important initiatives and legal measures adopted by the UK and some EU countries, in the last few years, to contrast sexist hate speech. Finally, the outcomes of the phenomenon are described in psychological, physical, and emotional terms, with a particular focus on the consequences it carries on the professional and personal life of the women affected.