Hate speech and threats of violence against elected representatives are a matter of grave concern and a serious challenge to the proper functioning of our democracies. The need for action on this issue has been made stark by the murders of British parliamentarians Jo Cox and Sir David Amess, and of Walter Lübcke in Germany.
Online and offline incidents, ranging from verbal abuse and harassment, intimidation, physical attacks, threats to families and to the person, and lethal violence – oftentimes disproportionately targeting women representatives – have underscored the urgency of redressing an atmosphere that increasingly fosters hostility, incites acts of hate speech, and normalises abuse. Unchecked, this atmosphere risks diminishing the quality and diversity of democratic processes.
Ensuring a constructive civil discourse where individual citizens can fully participate and engage in debate without fear of violence or harassment is crucial for building safe and inclusive societies, in which political pluralism and respect for democratic institutions thrive. In view of this overarching need to protect democracy and political culture, the Parliamentary Assembly should elaborate recommendations to safeguard the safety of elected representatives, promote greater respect in public discourse, and increase and uphold mutual trust and understanding.