Female politicians are increasingly put off politics due to the high levels of online abuse and bullying they receive, according to Conservative MP Fay Jones. Speaking to Sunday Supplement, Jones reported that she had received death threats on social media, and called for “innovative ways to protect yourself both online and in person”. Her comments came after a report by the Jo Cox Foundation revealed that intimidation of politicians is a significant threat to democracy. Another Conservative MP, Mike Freer, recently announced his decision to step down at the next general election, citing the abuse he had received as the reason.
Jones’ concerns are shared by many other female politicians. Jones said that she knew of many female county councillors who had struggled with online abuse. “When I approach talented women asking them to stand, the first thing they mention is the abuse and harassment that you get from online”, she said. The Jo Cox Foundation report recommended that social media companies offer extra support to politicians during elections. It also called for more police checks and the establishment of a central government-funded unit to tackle the issue.
Labour shadow cabinet minister Sir Chris Bryant told Sky News that he and his colleagues regularly receive abuse on social media. “I think every single one of us as an MP could give you a list of death threats and threats of attacks that we receive on pretty much a weekly basis”, he said. The Jo Cox Foundation report made 28 recommendations on how to protect political figures from abuse while still allowing for robust debate.
Jones’ comments reflect a growing trend of politicians speaking out about the impact of online abuse on their mental health and their ability to serve. With the trend showing no sign of abating, it’s likely that further measures will need to be implemented in order to ensure that democracy is not undermined by online intimidation and abuse
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