REPORT REVEALS 1,350% SURGE IN ANTI-SOUTH ASIAN HATE SPEECH ON CANADIAN SOCIAL MEDIA

A new research report has revealed a staggering 1,350% increase in hate speech targeting South Asians on Canadian social media platforms. The study analyzed posts on platform X (formerly Twitter) during matching timeframes in 2023 and 2024, documenting a rise from 1,163 hateful posts to 16,884. The sharpest spike occurred during Canada’s most recent federal election, where former NDP leader Jagmeet Singh was frequently singled out by online users.

Researchers warn that the digital environment is being increasingly influenced by far-right global narratives, with Canada framed as a "cautionary tale" due to its immigration policies. The proliferation of xenophobic rhetoric online is contributing to a hostile climate for South Asian communities in Canada.

This rise in digital hate parallels real-world violence. According to Statistics Canada, police-reported hate crimes targeting South Asians have risen by 200% between 2019 and 2023. Advocacy groups are calling for stronger content moderation on social media, better support for affected communities, and a national strategy to combat online hate.

Experts emphasize the urgency of addressing both online and offline hate, noting that unchecked digital abuse often leads to real-world consequences. The report underscores the importance of coordinated action by tech platforms, law enforcement, and government agencies to safeguard vulnerable populations and uphold Canada’s values of multiculturalism and inclusion.

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