Amnesty: Youth activists face digital harassment and self-censorship

Young human rights defenders in the Philippines are facing relentless digital harassment and self-censorship due to state-sponsored red-tagging, according to a new Amnesty International report released on Friday, April 4.

The report details how youth activists are withdrawing from advocacy work because of fear and psychological trauma caused by online trolls and death threats, with some experiencing sleepless nights and feelings of inferiority.

Amnesty interviewed young activists aged 18 to 24 for the report, revealing that a student activist identified as 'Habagat' was publicly red-tagged on the Facebook page of NTF-ELCAC, leading him to fear for his safety.

The harassment has led some activists to form support systems within organizations and seek mental health assistance, but government policies lack protection for defenders while harassers face no consequences.

Amnesty International urged the Marcos Jr. administration to end what it said was 'state-sponsored red-tagging, intimidation, harassment, threats or attacks against activists, including young human rights defenders.'