The Impact of Racist and Extremist Digital Content on Iraqi Society: Causes and Solutions

Abstract

This research addresses the phenomenon of the spread of racist and extremist digital content in Iraq, focusing on its negative impacts on the social fabric. In light of fluctuating political and economic conditions, digital media has become a primary tool for disseminating extremist ideologies, exacerbating sectarian and ethnic divisions and threatening social peace. The research aims to analyze the underlying causes of this phenomenon, such as the lack of effective monitoring of the digital space, the spread of poverty and unemployment, and the low level of digital awareness within society, which together create a fertile environment for the growth of such discourse. Through a rigorous scientific approach, the study presents the destructive effects of this content on Iraqi society, as it leads to the breakdown of social relations and undermines efforts to promote national unity and build a stable state. Additionally, the research proposes practical solutions to combat this phenomenon, including strengthening laws regulating digital content, developing community awareness programs targeting youth in particular, and fostering critical thinking to protect them from the negative influences of extremist ideologies. The research aims to provide a comprehensive view on how to address this challenge and work towards preserving social cohesion and enhancing intellectual security in Iraq.