By Alan Clement
Warrap State leaders have commenced a two-day consultation workshop aimed at developing a Media and Public Communication Strategy to curb the spread of hate speech and foster peaceful dialogue.
Speaking at the launch, Gabriel Machot Kur, Minister of Labour, Public Services and Human Resources Development, also representing the State Ministry of Peace Building emphasized that the initiative reflects Warrap State’s commitment to strengthening peace and social cohesion at a time when divisive language continues to threaten community harmony.
“This process is part of our broader commitment to peace and unity, as championed by Amb. Bol Wek Agoth, Governor of Warrap State. We are taking ownership of our narrative and building a strategy that reflects the voices and values of our communities,” said Machot in a statement.
Officials noted that the strategy will harmonize efforts among state institutions, civil society, and communities to reduce the impact of hate speech on public debate. “This consultation is about ensuring our people own the process of countering hate speech,” said one official in a statement, underscoring that local voices must drive the strategy to make it effective.
The Warrap State government expressed appreciation for UNDP’s continued support in areas including peace and security stabilization, institutional strengthening, and access to justice, while reiterating that countering hate speech requires grassroots ownership and commitment.
The workshop is aimed at producing a harmonized framework for media engagement, civic education, and institutional coordination to curb hate speech and foster constructive public dialogue.
According to the State’s Information ministry, the workshop; supported by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and funded by the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), reflects Warrap State’s commitment to inclusive dialogue and grassroots peacebuilding held under the theme “Engaging Local Communities, National Governments, and Partners to Address the Proliferation of Hate Speech in South Sudan.”