Online Hate Speech and the Role of Digital Platforms: What Are the Prospects for Freedom of Expression?

In recent years, the subject of freedom of expression has been extended to two new phenomena: the web and hate speech. The former has to do with the extent (potentially infinite and uncontrolled) of freedom; the latter has to do with its limits and brings into play the fundamental principles of protection of the individual and respect for human dignity, as well as the principle of non-discrimination. The present essay addresses the controversial issue of the repression of hate speech by online platforms and the new role assigned to them, namely regulating users’ fundamental rights.