With the General Election now announced for 4 July, at The Jo Cox Foundation we are focused on promoting a civil election campaign, free from the abuse and intimidation that blights our democracy.
Candidates have a vital role to play in this, which is why we have launched the Civility Pledge for this election, in partnership with Compassion in Politics. There are an estimated 6000 candidates in the running and by taking the Civility Pledge candidates can demonstrate that they commit to:
- Use a civil and constructive tone in debate
- Act with integrity, honesty and compassion
- Behave respectfully towards others, including those I disagree with
If you’re standing as a candidate on 4 July, we would urge you to sign the Civility Pledge and follow the instructions to share it publicly with your social media followers. In doing so, candidates can lead by example, showing that disagreements can be handled without resorting to abuse. This modelling of good behaviour from elected politicians is one of the key recommendations from the Jo Cox Civility Commission. By debating with civility, showing personal integrity and respecting others, we can show that a more positive and constructive political climate is possible.
Why is civility crucial during election periods? These are times often marked by heightened tensions and polarised rhetoric. It’s a time when politicians are pitted against each other, and the public will see head-to-head debates, where there is the risk of descending into personal jibes and criticisms. These public displays of incivility can erode trust, and discourage participation at a time when political engagement is particularly important.
It’s also a time when candidates are regularly in contact with the public when they’re out campaigning. New Electoral Commission research shows that in the May local elections, over half of candidates (56%) experienced abuse – which could include receiving physical threats or threats towards family, staff or friends. This affected their campaigning and disproportionately impacted women candidates, with 56% avoiding campaigning alone due to abuse, compared to 19% of men.*
This has an impact in a variety of ways, including on the wellbeing of candidates. In our research last year for the Jo Cox Civility Commission, one local politician told us of the impact of abuse on them, saying “I was extremely ill during the election period and contemplated suicide”. Candidates who experience abuse and need extra support can access guidance from the Electoral Commission which includes information on contacting the police, protecting yourself, family and colleagues and legislative guidance.
Abuse and intimidation of our elected representatives – including violence towards them – is one of the biggest threats to our democracy in the UK.
In the run-up to the 2024 General Election on 4 July, we are urging candidates to commit to running a respectful campaign by signing and sharing the Civility Pledge. Through the election and beyond, we are also campaigning for the implementation of our Jo Cox Civility Commission recommendations to ensure abuse has no place in politics.
*The study was carried out online in May 2024. It had 430 respondents from candidates standing at the May 2024 elections in England. Find out more.