“Hate is a slow poison that – if left unaddressed – can spread widely in our communities, affecting the most vulnerable,” stressed Véronique Bertholle (France, SOC/G/PD), Congress Spokesperson on Youth and Deputy Mayor of Strasbourg, speaking in a panel discussion on the state of hate and violent extremism in cities in Europe and North America, in Strasbourg, France, on 14 May 2024.
Taking part in a two-day workshop for local leaders held at the European Parliament in the framework of transatlantic dialogue on combatting hate and violent extremism at local level, Ms Bertholle highlighted the importance of tackling hate and extremism as part of a wider effort to create an environment of tolerance, unity and cohesion at local level.
Organised by the Strong Cities Network on 14 and 15 May, the event focused on city-led efforts in strengthening social cohesion and safeguarding local democracy. In addition to contemporary threats such as terrorism or extremist movements, the panel on 14 May addressed the impact of hate and violence on local elected officials. While noting the need for local politicians and community leaders to play an exemplary role in refraining from using hateful speech, Ms Bertholle also underlined the importance of protecting them from violence.
“The Congress is adamant about the fact that local democracy cannot thrive in a context where even democratically elected representatives are unsafe,” Ms Bertholle stated. She warned that violence against local officials has a paralyzing effect on the most fundamental level of democracy, as outlined in recent Congress reports on the impact of hate speech on local elected officials and on sexist violence in politics at local level.
Finally, the Congress Spokesperson on Youth also emphasised the need to work with young people and increase their resilience to fake news and online hate.
