While corruption and widespread inequality were among the root causes of the massive street protests that erupted last year in Ukraine, the fear-mongering and incitement to hatred that has followed must be urgently countered to avoid the further escalation of tensions in the country, according to a United Nations human rights report issued today.

“Facts on the ground need to be established to help reduce the risk of radically different narratives being exploited for political ends. People need a reliable point of view to counter what has been widespread misinformation and also speech that aims to incite hatred on national, religious or racial grounds,” said UN High Commissioner for HuIt is critical for the Government to prioritize respect for diversity, inclusivity and equal participation of all – including minorities – in political lifeman Rights Navi Pillay, who’s Office (OHCHR) released the report.