Voices of Virtual Violence

“Voices of Virtual Violence” Exhibition Raises Awareness on Online Hate Speech in Tirana

Tirana, November 26, 2024 – The “Voices of Virtual Violence” exhibition, held at the National Art Gallery of Tirana on November 25-29, 2024, successfully shed light on the impact of online hate speech, engaging a diverse audience in meaningful discussions about digital violence. Organized by the Albania Sustainable Development Organization (ASDO), under the leadership of Zhaklin Lekatari, the exhibition transformed anonymized online hate messages into powerful artistic installations, encouraging visitors to reflect on the real-world consequences of virtual aggression.

The exhibition opened with a well-attended ceremony featuring key figures from journalism, art, and diplomacy, including representatives from the French Embassy, the United Nations, and various media outlets. Zhaklin Lekatari, the creator of the exhibition, and Krist Dragot, the curator, introduced the initiative by highlighting the emotional and psychological impact of online hate speech. The immersive display, set in a dimly lit space with soft background sound, created an intense atmosphere, forcing visitors to confront the weight of the harmful words commonly found on social media.

Throughout the event, the exhibition continued to attract attention, with notable visits from the French Ambassador and groups of high school students, further amplifying the conversation on online safety and digital responsibility.

Key Achievements:

• Approximately 120 visitors attended the exhibition, including journalists, artists, students, diplomats, and members of the public.
• The curated exhibition design effectively conveyed the emotional toll of online hate speech, sparking deep reflection and discussion.
• The interactive Reflection Wall encouraged visitors to share their thoughts on personal safety, fostering a collective dialogue on resilience and healing.
• The event gained significant attention through collaborations with influencers, social media campaigns, and press coverage, ensuring a broader reach for its message.