HATE SPEECH NARRATIVES ON SOCIAL MEDIA DURING THE 2024 PAKISTAN ELECTIONS: A CONTENT ANALYSIS OF FACEBOOK, TWITTER, AND YOUTUBE

Authors

  • Dr. Ashraf Iqbal
  • Dr. Sana Haroon
  • Mr. Muhammad Hamza Arif

Abstract

This study investigates the prevalence, character, and implications of hate speech narratives on social media during the 2024 Pakistan elections. Social media platforms are critical instruments for political communication, but they have also become fertile grounds for polarization and hate. Employing a mixed-method content analysis of Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube, this study examines the frequency, themes, and forms of hate speech disseminated during the election season. Results reveal that hate speech was primarily directed at political opponents, ethnic minorities, and marginalized groups. It often appeared in the form of memes, derogatory hashtags, and emotionally charged vlogs. This paper argues that the amplification of hate speech by algorithms and selective exposure negatively influenced political discourse and voter perceptions. The findings highlight the need for regulatory frameworks, media literacy, and responsible digital governance to mitigate the detrimental effects of online hate speech on democratic culture in Pakistan.

Keywords: Hate Speech, Social Media, Content Analysis, Pakistan Elections 2024, Political Communication, Polarization

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Published

2025-10-17

How to Cite

Dr. Ashraf Iqbal, Dr. Sana Haroon, & Mr. Muhammad Hamza Arif. (2025). HATE SPEECH NARRATIVES ON SOCIAL MEDIA DURING THE 2024 PAKISTAN ELECTIONS: A CONTENT ANALYSIS OF FACEBOOK, TWITTER, AND YOUTUBE. Policy Journal of Social Science Review, 3(10), 349–363. Retrieved from https://www.policyjssr.com/index.php/PJSSR/article/view/553

Issue

Vol. 3 No. 10 (2025): Policy Journal of Social Science Review

Section

Articles