Key Takeaways
- Auckland councillor Julie Fairey reveals that female councillors, particularly women of colour, often receive more abuse than their male counterparts.
- A survey of Auckland Council members found that 81% of respondents had been harassed or bullied by members of the public, with 65% experiencing online abuse.
- The majority of those targeted were women, with 69% of respondents reporting being targeted by fellow elected members.
- Councillors are calling for a change in culture, with some suggesting that politicians should lead by example and exhibit respectful behaviour.
- The issue of abuse and harassment is not limited to Auckland, with Local Government NZ vice president Rehette Stolz stating that it is a nationwide problem.
Introduction to the Issue
Auckland councillor Julie Fairey has spoken out about the abusive comments she has received, particularly after being hit by a car while cycling and suffering a broken leg. Despite being accustomed to abusive comments, Fairey was still shocked by the cruelty of some of the comments she saw on social media. She expressed her concern that her children or mother might see the comments, and that it would be upsetting for them. This incident highlights the issue of abuse and harassment faced by councillors, particularly women, and the need for a change in culture.
The Prevalence of Abuse
A survey of Auckland Council members found that 81% of respondents had been harassed or bullied by members of the public, with 65% experiencing online abuse. The majority of those targeted were women, with 69% of respondents reporting being targeted by fellow elected members. Councillor Fairey noted that women, particularly women of colour, often receive more abuse than their male counterparts. She also stated that some of her friends who would make great local government elected members are deterred from standing due to the fear of abuse.
The Impact on Councillors
Councillors are speaking out about the impact of abuse and harassment on their well-being and their families. Councillor Andy Baker said that he avoids social media due to personal attacks, while councillor Alf Filipaina said that he ignores abusive emails. However, councillor John Watson noted that the conduct around the council table can be appalling, and that councillors need to watch their own behaviour. He suggested that the council should encourage a higher standard of discourse amongst elected members.
The Need for Change
Councillors are calling for a change in culture, with some suggesting that politicians should lead by example and exhibit respectful behaviour. Councillor Fairey challenged the idea that elected members should have to put up with vicious comments, and stated that politicians have a role in bringing down the temperature themselves. Local Government NZ vice president Rehette Stolz said that the problem is nationwide, and that recent changes to stalking and harassment legislation may improve safety for councillors across the country.
Actions Being Taken
The Auckland Council has taken actions to address the issue, including de-escalation training for members and promoting the need to log incidents. Council spokesperson Lou-Ann Ballantyne said that the level of intimidation and threats is worrying, and that the council is working through a range of possible tactics to help improve elected member safety and wellbeing. Local Government NZ is also supporting members who are victims of abuse, and working closely with them to ensure they are safe and respected.
Conclusion
The issue of abuse and harassment faced by councillors is a serious one, and it is not limited to Auckland. Councillors are calling for a change in culture, and for politicians to lead by example and exhibit respectful behaviour. The Auckland Council and Local Government NZ are taking actions to address the issue, but more needs to be done to ensure that councillors can carry out their duties without fear of abuse or harassment. As councillor John Watson said, "Walking the talk and leading by example is a good way of ensuring that quite disturbing behaviour being signalled through this survey isn’t normalised."