Aggression and intimidation against elected politicians have become widespread phenomena. This chapter presents the results of the survey regarding experiences of aggression (online aggression, being the target of online fake news, verbal aggression, physical aggression, and attacks on property) and their impact on the work of councillors. We examine how aggression is experienced among councillors across Europe, and how political and personal factors, such as party affiliation, being in government or opposition, or policy stance, influence exposure to aggression. We assess whether councillors adapt their behaviour following such experiences. Our results suggest that advocacy on progressive issues and visibility are key drivers of abuse, with notable differences between urban and rural contexts. Whilst men and women report similar levels of verbal and online aggression, the reported impact on their work differs. We conclude with reflections on the wider implications of these findings for the functioning of local democracy.

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Councillors and the Risks They Run: Aggression Experiences of Municipal Councillors in Europe and the Impact on Their Work

  • Bettina Petersohn,
  • Jessika Wide,
  • Thom Oliver,
  • Marjolein Teunissen,
  • David Sweeting,
  • Colin Copus

摘要

Aggression and intimidation against elected politicians have become widespread phenomena. This chapter presents the results of the survey regarding experiences of aggression (online aggression, being the target of online fake news, verbal aggression, physical aggression, and attacks on property) and their impact on the work of councillors. We examine how aggression is experienced among councillors across Europe, and how political and personal factors, such as party affiliation, being in government or opposition, or policy stance, influence exposure to aggression. We assess whether councillors adapt their behaviour following such experiences. Our results suggest that advocacy on progressive issues and visibility are key drivers of abuse, with notable differences between urban and rural contexts. Whilst men and women report similar levels of verbal and online aggression, the reported impact on their work differs. We conclude with reflections on the wider implications of these findings for the functioning of local democracy.