Jo Cox Civility Commission

Abuse and intimidation of our elected representatives – including violence towards them – is one of the biggest threats to our democracy in the UK. 

Run by The Jo Cox Foundation, the Jo Cox Civility Commission has identified a range of practical recommendations across different sectors – from central government, to policing, and social media. Significant progress has already been made and we are continuing to campaign for further action.

We published our first call to action in January 2024 and a renewed call to action specifically for the devolved nations in February 2026.

Without change, we risk seeing more politicians stepping down due to abuse and intimidation, fewer people putting themselves forward as candidates, and less diversity and representation in UK politics.

“The importance of addressing violence, abuse and harassment in our politics is underlined this year as we approach the tenth anniversary of Jo’s murder.  We work on these issues not only or primarily because of the way that Jo was killed but because of the values with which she lived. Jo believed passionately in robust debate and diverse representation. We call on everyone across society to take action to address abuse and promote a more respectful, inclusive politics.” 

Baroness Jan Royall, Chair of The Jo Cox Foundation (February 2026)

Abuse and intimidation of elected politicians is a genuine threat to democracy in this country and now is the time to act if we want to prevent elected representatives from stepping down and ensure a diverse and talented future pipeline of politicians.

Rt Hon Jacqui Smith, Chair of The Jo Cox Foundation (January 2024)

I’ve had a swastika painted on my wall, the words traitor painted on my wall, campaign posters defaced and destroyed, tyre slashed and threatened with being egged on the street.

Local councillor, in response to our call for submissions in 2023