The Serbian community’s experience of hate speech in Malta : a qualitative study

Abstract

This is a study aimed to explore the phenomena of hate speech that occurs in Malta, specifically through the experiences of the Serbian community who are current residents on this island. The objectives on which this study is based on include; (1) documenting the experiences of Serbians in Malta who have been subjected to hate speech, (2) studying the feelings hate speech induces and the effects it has on the lives of the targeted individuals and (3) identifying any coping strategies Serbians have when facing hate speech. Qualitative analysis was used for this research question in order to obtain a rich and detailed understanding of such experiences, which were gathered through semi-structured interviews conducted on five Serbian participants who were victims of hate speech. Thematic analysis was the method used to analyse the data collected to ensure in-depth findings. This study reached its objectives by providing the hardships found in the integration process as well as the relationship between Serbian and Maltese nationals. Furthermore, it documented the effects such as feelings of suppression and neglect. What was also found is that hate speech does not remain one-sided, as Serbians follow these insults with comebacks of their own. The participants also highlighted the ways hate speech can be reduced in aims to have a more peaceful and co-operational society.