The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization - UNESCO - and the Social Media 4 Peace South Africa Coalition have launched a new study on the governance of online harmful content and freedom of expression in South Africa. The study, launched on Thursday, examines the spread of hate speech and disinformation online, and how South Africa can address harmful content while protecting freedom of expression. The findings come as the country prepares for the 2026 municipal elections, amid concerns about online hate speech and disinformation, and their potential impact on democratic participation. Channel Africa's Lebogang Mabange reports...

<p>The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization - UNESCO - and the Social Media 4 Peace South Africa Coalition have launched a new study on the governance of online harmful content and freedom of expression in South Africa. The study, launched on Thursday, examines the spread of hate speech and disinformation online, and how South Africa can address harmful content while protecting freedom of expression. The findings come as the country prepares for the 2026 municipal elections, amid concerns about online hate speech and disinformation, and their potential impact on democratic participation. Channel Africa's Lebogang Mabange reports...</p>