The Growing Threat of Online Incitement: Combating Hate Speech Against LGBT People in Cameroon

Incitement Against LGBT People in Cameroon

Online Hate Precedes Visit by French Expert

Introduction

In recent years, the plight of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and intersex (LGBTI) individuals in Cameroon has received international attention due to the rampant homophobia and violence they face. The situation has been exacerbated by the incitement of hatred online, particularly in response to the planned visit by Jean-Marc Berthon, the French ambassador for the Rights of LGBT+ Persons. His visit aimed to address issues related to gender and sexuality, but it was met with a disturbing outpouring of vitriol and threats of violence on social media. This report explores the alarming rise of online hate speech against the LGBT community in Cameroon, the government’s complicity in perpetuating such attitudes, and the urgent need for action to protect and uphold the rights of LGBT individuals.

The Cancelled Visit and Hate Speech

Berthon’s visit, scheduled later this month, was met with objection by Cameroon‘s government, with Foreign Minister Lejeune Mbella Mbella claiming that it would violate Cameroonian law, which criminalizes same-sex relations. Subsequently, the visit was cancelled. However, the announcement of the visit triggered a wave of hateful rhetoric on social media, with calls for mob justice and violence against LGBT individuals. Government officials and public figures resorted to derogatory and dehumanizing language, referring to LGBT people as “against nature,” “an anomaly,” “vampire citizens,” and “destructive of the family” and the state. This online hatred has created a climate of fear and insecurity for LGBT individuals in Cameroon.

Fiction of Non-Existence

Adding to the gravity of the situation, the foreign minister denied the existence of LGBT individuals in Cameroon, a patently false claim. LGBT groups are indeed present in the country, and some even collaborate with the government on initiatives to combat HIV/AIDS. However, the Cameroonian government has consistently failed to protect the rights of LGBT people and has been complicit in acts of violence against them. This denial of their existence further marginalizes and endangers LGBT individuals, making it more difficult for them to seek support or report incidents of violence.

The Paradox of LGBT Rights in Cameroon

An Elusive Quest for Equality

Cameroon has a lamentable track record when it comes to upholding the rights of LGBT individuals. Security forces, instead of providing protection, often perpetuate violence against LGBT individuals or remain complicit in such acts. This paradox underscores the urgent need for the Cameroonian government to unequivocally denounce violence and incitement against LGBT people, investigate crimes committed against them, and hold the perpetrators accountable.

Government Responsibility and the Human Rights Imperative

As a state, Cameroon has an obligation to protect the human rights of all its citizens, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. The Constitution of Cameroon, while not explicitly guaranteeing protection to LGBT individuals, does affirm the principles of equality, non-discrimination, and human dignity. By allowing hate speech and violence to flourish, the government is undermining these fundamental principles and failing in its responsibility to protect its citizens.

Recommendations

Addressing Online Hate Speech

To effectively combat the growing threat of online hate speech, the Cameroonian government should develop and enforce robust legislation that explicitly criminalizes incitement to violence and hate speech against any marginalized group, including the LGBT community. Social media platforms should also play a proactive role in countering hate speech by strengthening their moderation policies and removing content that violates their terms of service. Furthermore, public education campaigns should be implemented to promote tolerance, understanding, and empathy towards LGBT individuals, challenging prevalent prejudices and stereotypes.

Protecting the Rights of LGBT Individuals

Law enforcement agencies must be trained to recognize and respond appropriately to incidents of violence against LGBT individuals, ensuring that perpetrators are held accountable and victims are provided with the necessary support and protection. The government should establish dedicated mechanisms, such as special police units or ombudsman offices, to ensure that these cases are handled sensitively and effectively. Furthermore, the establishment of safe spaces, counseling services, and support networks for LGBT individuals can provide valuable assistance and contribute to fostering greater societal acceptance.

International Cooperation

The international community, including the French government and other allies, should leverage their influence and engage diplomatically with the Cameroonian government to underscore the importance of protecting the rights of LGBT individuals. Economic and political pressures can be employed as tools to incentivize the government to take concrete steps towards ending violence and discrimination against the LGBT community. Additionally, international organizations and human rights groups should provide support to local LGBT organizations in Cameroon, enabling them to continue their vital work in challenging the status quo and advocating for change.

Conclusion

The wave of online hate speech and violence against LGBT individuals in Cameroon is a distressing reflection of a society still grappling with deeply ingrained prejudices and a government failing its duty to protect all of its citizens. It is imperative for the Cameroonian government to take immediate action to address this alarming trend and ensure the safety and dignity of LGBT individuals. By fostering an environment of tolerance, promoting education and awareness, and enforcing accountability for acts of violence, Cameroon can begin to realize its commitment to human rights and ensure equal protection under the law for all its citizens, including those from the LGBT community.

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