Threats to Commonwealth Democracies
The presence of a toxic online environment poses a significant risk to democracies within the Commonwealth. This detrimental atmosphere not only threatens our core values but also undermines the freedoms and choices of our citizens.
Violence in any professional setting is intolerable, particularly for journalists and media personnel who play a vital role in upholding freedom and democracy. Furthermore, we denounce the alarming rise in violence and aggression directed towards frontline workers, including those in healthcare and retail sectors.
The Gender Disparity in Political Threats
Across 180 State and Federal Parliaments within Commonwealth nations, there are over 6,000 women serving as parliamentarians. Evidence shows that in both Australia and the UK, female parliamentarians are three times more likely to report experiencing sexualised or gender-based threats, whether online or in person, compared to their male counterparts.
Additionally, elected officials in the UK and Australia have faced life-threatening situations simply for fulfilling their duties within their communities. Such tragic incidents are mirrored across the Commonwealth, with women parliamentarians often being the primary targets.
The Impact on Democracy
This alarming trend significantly erodes the foundations of our democracies. The hostility faced by elected representatives and their families discourages talented and principled individuals from pursuing a career in politics.
Addressing these issues necessitates a collaborative effort. It is imperative that governments, technology firms, and other stakeholders unite to foster safer online environments that safeguard individuals and communities, encourage respectful public discourse, and facilitate safe engagement in public life.
Commitments to Online Safety
During the UN General Assembly, our governments pledged to collaborate in making the online landscape safer, restoring individuals’ autonomy over what they encounter on digital platforms, and ensuring that children are shielded from harmful content. Australia and the UK have reaffirmed their commitment through bilateral Memorandums of Understanding aimed at combating gender-based violence and enhancing online safety and security, focusing on shared challenges related to technology-facilitated gender-based violence.
A Collaborative Approach to Solutions
We pledge to work alongside the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association, the Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians, and nations throughout the Commonwealth to combine technology, expertise, and practical solutions that will protect parliamentarians from online abuse and promote democratic participation. Our inaugural forum is scheduled for 2027, and we aim to engage all Commonwealth members who share these values.
Various software tools are currently being trialled within our Parliaments and around the globe, and we welcome and encourage such innovative approaches.
Steps Towards a Respectful Debate
While advancing towards a cultural shift that values respectful debate and restores public choice, we can make immediate commitments to take collective action aimed at safeguarding our democracies.