[SEAN-CSO Webinar] Behind the Screens: Understanding Digital Hate and Extremism

The internet has become an undeniable part of modern life, connecting billions of people globally.

However, this interconnectedness has a dark side.

Digital spaces are increasingly becoming fertile ground for the spread of hatred and extremist ideologies, posing a significant threat to social cohesion and safety.

To shed light on this pressing issue, we invite you to an essential webinar, “Behind the Screens: Understanding digital hate and extremism,” on 25 July 2025, at 3:00 PM (Jakarta/Bangkok Time).

This timely event will feature two distinguished speakers: Professor Greg Barton of Deakin University, Australia, a leading authority on global Islamic politics and countering violent extremism, and Adhe Bhakti, a respected Indonesian analyst from PAKAR, who brings deep insights into the dynamics of extremism in Southeast Asia.

The Blurring Lines: Hate Speech, Extremism, and Freedom of Expression

One of the most significant challenges in addressing online toxicity is navigating the complex terrain between hate speech, violent extremism, and the fundamental right to freedom of expression.

This webinar will provide participants with clear and concise definitions, enabling them to distinguish between these often-conflated concepts.

Professor Greg Barton’s experience in this area will be a central focus of this discussion. His work often emphasises the critical difference between radical ideas, which can sometimes be a catalyst for positive social change, and the justification and incitement of violence that characterises violent extremism.

The session will explore the legal and ethical frameworks that govern online speech, providing a nuanced understanding of where the boundaries lie. For instance, while freedom of expression is a cornerstone of democratic societies, it is not an absolute right and does not protect speech that incites violence, discrimination, or hatred.

Adhe Bhakti will provide a crucial Indonesian perspective on this issue, examining how these definitions are applied within the Indonesian legal and socio-cultural context. His expertise will shed light on the specific challenges faced by a diverse nation grappling with the digital proliferation of extremist narratives.

The Engine Room of Hate: Platforms, Algorithms, and AI

How does hateful content spread so rapidly online? This webinar will delve into the technological architecture that underpins the dissemination of digital hate. Participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of the role that online platforms, algorithms, and artificial intelligence (AI) play in amplifying extremist content.

The discussion will explore how recommendation algorithms, designed to maximise user engagement, can inadvertently create “filter bubbles” and “echo chambers.”

These digital environments can isolate individuals from differing viewpoints, reinforcing their existing biases and making them more susceptible to extremist propaganda. The webinar will unpack how extremist groups exploit these platform features to groom and recruit new members.

Professor Barton’s research into “violent and hateful extremism” (VHE) will be particularly pertinent here, as he has examined how digital technologies are leveraged by these movements to build communities and spread their ideologies.

The session will also explore the emerging challenges and opportunities presented by AI, ranging from the use of deepfakes to spread disinformation to the potential of AI-powered tools for content moderation and counter-narrative campaigns.

The Psychology of Radicalisation: Echo Chambers and Identity

What makes an individual susceptible to extremist ideologies online? The final objective of this webinar is to explore the psychological and social dynamics that drive digital radicalisation. This session will move beyond the technology to understand the human element of this complex issue.

The speakers will discuss how extremist groups manipulate echo chambers and identity politics to foster an “us versus them” mentality. By creating a sense of belonging and shared grievance, these groups can attract individuals who may feel alienated or disenfranchised in their offline lives.

The webinar will analyse the psychological tactics used to build this sense of in-group identity and to dehumanise out-groups, paving the way for the justification of hatred and violence.

Drawing on his extensive experience in Southeast Asia, Adhe Bhakti will provide context-specific examples of how these dynamics play out in Indonesia, offering valuable insights for civil society organisations, policymakers, and community leaders working to build resilience against extremism.

Meet the Speakers

Professor Greg Barton is the Research Professor in Global Islamic Politics at the Alfred Deakin Institute for Citizenship and Globalisation at Deakin University. He is one of Australia’s leading scholars on terrorism, countering violent extremism, and Islam in Southeast Asia. With over 35 years of research experience, Professor Barton has published extensively on these topics and is a sought-after commentator and advisor for governments and organisations worldwide.

Adhe Bhakti is a distinguished expert from PAKAR, an Indonesian organisation focused on conflict analysis. As a seasoned terrorism monitor and legal expert, Adhe Bhakti possesses an in-depth understanding of the evolution of extremist networks in Indonesia and the legal frameworks designed to counter them. He has collaborated extensively with international researchers, providing invaluable on-the-ground data and analysis.

Adriana Anjani, Partnership Coordinator at PeaceGeneration Indonesia, will moderate the webinar.

Join the Conversation

The rise of digital hate and extremism is a challenge that requires a collective response. This webinar presents a unique opportunity to learn from leading experts and acquire the knowledge and tools necessary to contribute to the solution.

Don’t miss this important event. Register for “Behind the Screens: Understanding digital hate and extremism” today.

[Registration Link Here]

By understanding the forces that drive online hate, we can work together to create a safer and more inclusive digital world.

We look forward to your participation on July 25th, 2025.