Zahariev, B. and Iordanov, I. (2024), Public attitudes towards hate speech in Bulgaria in 2023 (Обществени нагласи спрямо речта на омразата в България през 2023 г.), Sofia, Open Society Institute Sofia,
Country
Bulgaria
Title
Zahariev, B. and Iordanov, I. (2024), Public attitudes towards hate speech in Bulgaria in 2023 (Обществени нагласи спрямо речта на омразата в България през 2023 г.), Sofia, Open Society Institute Sofia, 21 November 2024.
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Year
2024
Publication type
Survey evidence/report
Geographical coverage
National
Area/location of interest
Not applicable - national level
Type of Institution
Civil Society Organisation
Institution
Bulgaria, Open Society Institute Sofia (Институт Отворено Общество София)
Thematic focus
Hate speech: Public incitement to hatred or violence
Groups
General population
Key findings
Hate speech is increasingly shifting from traditional to digital media, with 67% of respondents citing social media and websites as primary sources, compared to 35% for television. Politicians and journalists are now less frequently identified as sources, reflecting changing media consumption habits. Social media has blurred the line between consumers and producers of content, turning users into active participants. In 2023, hostile remarks against minorities were most often heard from relatives and friends. Awareness of hate speech laws remains low, especially among Roma and less educated groups. Young people (18–29) report less exposure than in 2018, but also lower legal awareness. Public disapproval of hate speech is strong (85%), with notable support (54%) for state protection of minorities and around 64% backing restrictions on public funding for parties and media spreading hate. Despite this, few are willing to report serious incidents, even when they may qualify as crimes.
Methodology (Qualitative/Quantitative and exact type used, questionnaires etc)
This study employs quantitative methods, including questionnaires and face-to-face interviews. It builds on previous research analyzing public perceptions of hate speech through nationally representative surveys (2013–2018).
Sample details and representativeness
The survey employed a standardised questionnaire and face-to-face interviews, using a probability-based, two-stage cluster sampling method stratified by administrative region (NUTS-3) and locality type (urban vs. rural). Conducted between 9-17 July 2023, as part of the romapolicylab.org initiative, it was funded by the Active Citizens Bulgaria Fund under the EEA Financial Mechanism 2014-2021. The sample, based on National Statistical Institute's population data (as of 31.12.2022), included 1,003 respondents, with a 45.6 % refusal rate. The margin of error was ±3.1 % at a 95 % confidence level.
DISCLAIMERThe information presented here is collected under contract by the FRA's research network FRANET. The information and views contained do not necessarily reflect the views or the official position of the FRA.