A recent survey reveals that 67% of teenagers have been victims of cyberbullying, while as many as 94% of young people experienced online hostility in the past year.
Minority youth, including Ukrainians and those with disabilities, are disproportionately targeted, with over half facing online abuse several times weekly.
The study involved 816 participants aged 11 to 21, including 194 from minority groups. It found that most cyberbullying takes the form of spreading slander or insults. Approximately 60% of victims confided in someone about their experiences, though boys were less likely to do so.
Hate speech was encountered by 94% of respondents, with nearly half (49%) facing it at least weekly. The majority of hateful remarks were aimed at Ukrainians and LGBT+ individuals. In response, 45% of young people actively confronted the abuse by reporting or engaging in discussions, while 35% took passive measures like blocking offenders.
Members of vulnerable groups tended to be more proactive, with 66% attempting to counteract hateful behavior—42% motivated by a desire to protect others from harm.
The study highlights that prejudice against minorities remains widespread in the Czech Republic, suggesting that the actual number of those affected by online hate may be even higher.
