Across the globe, hostility towards and distrust in public institutions is rising. Nowhere is this more true than at a local level – the most accessible sphere of government. Councillors and staff are increasingly tackling issues stemming from rising levels of negative, abusive and sometimes threatening rhetoric.

Addressing this pressing issue for local government, this webinar will explore the experiences and lessons from local government across the globe.

Key areas for discussion will include

• What are the reasons for a decline in civility in local public life both outside and within the council chamber?
• How an overall rise of abuse is deterring talented individuals from pursuing or remaining in public service and exacerbating existing inequalities.
• How can local government as an institution promote the value of local democracy?
• Strategies for increasing future engagement in the local democratic process.
• The rise of misinformation and the rise of toxicity – how to counteract the cause and effect.

Panellists for this session include: 

• Jacqui Weatherill, CEO, City of Greater Dandenong, Australia
• Professor Catherine Needham, Professor of Public Policy and Public Management, University of Birmingham, UK
• Jo Miller, CE, Hutt City Council, NZ
• Hannah Phillips, Civility Commission Manager, Jo Cox Foundation, UK
• Diane Kalen-Sukra, Founder, Kalen Academy, Canada