Youth and Community Leader, Cleatine Asongwe, Condemns Hate Speech, Calls for Social Cohesion and National Unity in Cameroon
Youth and community leader Cleatine Asongwe Dhin Kangue has called for greater responsibility in public discourse, warning against narratives that divide communities along regional and identity lines. In a public reflection shared on his Facebook page, Asongwe urged citizens, opinion leaders, and civil society actors to reject hate-filled rhetoric and instead promote dialogue, unity, and peaceful coexistence in Cameroon.
The statement comes amid heightened debates on social media involving influential voices within the Anglophone community. While acknowledging that vigorous public debate is a vital feature of democratic societies, Asongwe stressed that freedom of expression must be exercised with a sense of responsibility, particularly in contexts affected by conflict and social polarization.
In his reflection titled “Words Matter: Reflections on Public Discourse and Social Cohesion,” Asongwe expressed concern over the increasing use of labels, stereotypes, and language that demean individuals based on their regional identity.
According to him, such rhetoric risks widening existing divisions and undermining efforts aimed at promoting social cohesion in the North West and South West Regions of Cameroon.
“The use of labels, stereotypes, or language that demeans individuals based on regional identity can deepen divisions and weaken social cohesion,” Asongwe stated.
He emphasized that communities in the Anglophone regions share a common history, common challenges, and common aspirations, adding that public conversations should strengthen mutual understanding rather than reinforce differences.
Asongwe highlighted the importance of responsible communication as an essential component of conflict prevention. He referenced the Responsibility to Protect (R2P) principle, unanimously endorsed by United Nations Member States in 2005, noting that preventing violence begins long before physical violence occurs.
According to him, preventing conflict requires addressing factors that erode trust, fuel polarization, and weaken social bonds within communities.
He argued that leaders, activists, media practitioners, and citizens all have a collective responsibility to ensure that public conversations contribute to peace rather than division.
Drawing lessons from the 1994 Rwanda Genocide, Asongwe underscored the dangers of identity-based narratives and hate speech. While recognizing that historical circumstances differ, he said the broader lesson remains relevant for societies seeking lasting peace.
He noted that sustainable peace can only be achieved through dialogue, inclusion, respect for diversity, and the rejection of harmful stereotypes.
“Peaceful societies are built through dialogue, inclusion, and mutual respect,” he said, urging communities never to underestimate the destructive consequences of narratives that pit one group against another.
Asongwe observed that the North West and South West Regions continue to face common social, economic, and humanitarian challenges. Rather than amplifying historical divisions, he encouraged citizens to focus on the values that unite communities.
He called on public figures, traditional authorities, religious leaders, civil society organizations, youth leaders, and ordinary citizens to champion constructive dialogue and peaceful coexistence.
According to him, every individual has a role to play in building trust, encouraging respectful engagement, and creating inclusive spaces where differing opinions can be expressed without hostility.
“Choose Words That Build Bridges”
Ending his reflection with a call for collective responsibility, Asongwe appealed to citizens to be mindful of the language they use, both online and offline.
“As citizens, let us choose words that build bridges rather than walls. Let us encourage respectful engagement, challenge harmful stereotypes, and promote a culture of unity and dignity,” he urged.
He clarified that the opinions expressed in the reflection were his personal views and did not represent those of any organization or institution with which he is affiliated.
As Cameroon continues to navigate complex political and social challenges, Asongwe’s appeal highlights the growing importance of responsible public discourse in preventing polarization and strengthening national unity. His message reinforces the role of inclusive dialogue, mutual respect, and civic responsibility in advancing peacebuilding efforts, particularly within the country’s Anglophone regions.
Observers note that at a time when conversations on social media increasingly shape public opinion, promoting respectful engagement and rejecting hate narratives remain essential to safeguarding social cohesion and preventing conflict escalation.
Berinyuy Cajetan is the founder and publisher of Human Rights and Legal Research Centre (HRLRC) since 2017. He has intensive experience in strategic communications for Civil Society Organizations, campaign and advocacy, and social issues. He has an intensive experiencing in human rights monitoring, documentation and reporting.
