In a significant move to counter escalating threats against Members of Parliament, a new national democracy protection unit has been established to assist police forces across the UK. The initiative, led by Chief Constable Chris Balmer, aims to address the alarming rise in anti-democratic crimes, which have more than doubled since 2019.
Surge in Threats and Abuse
Reports indicate that incidents of harassment, criminal damage, and even death threats against MPs are on the rise, with almost 1,000 reported cases last year alone. This represents a staggering increase from just 364 incidents in 2019. Security Minister Dan Jarvis highlighted the unprecedented nature of these threats, stating, “The volume, breadth and tempo of threats against elected representatives is unprecedented.”
Data obtained by the BBC reveals that between 2019 and 2025, MPs reported a total of 4,064 crimes to the Metropolitan Police’s Parliamentary Liaison Team. The most frequently recorded offences were related to malicious communications, totalling 2,066 incidents over the six-year period. Alarmingly, 50 death threats were recorded in 2025, a notable rise from 31 in the previous year.
New Measures and Support
In response to these concerning figures, the new democracy protection unit will coordinate intelligence on threats to politicians, guide local police forces on classifying anti-democratic crimes, and offer specialised support for investigations. Balmer’s role will be crucial in adapting to the evolving landscape of threats, particularly as a growing number of MPs report that they are regularly subjected to abusive behaviour.
Labour MP Kim Leadbeater, sister of the late Jo Cox, expressed her dismay at the situation, saying, “Nearly 10 years on from my sister’s murder, we’re probably in a worse place.” She emphasised that this issue is not just a political problem but reflects a broader societal challenge related to how we engage with one another.
The Impact on MPs and Their Families
The personal toll of these threats is undeniable. MPs like Sam Rushworth and Natalie Fleet have faced extreme harassment, prompting them to increase security measures at home. Rushworth, who received multiple death threats from an obsessed constituent, described the emotional strain on his family, stating, “My wife asked me if we could move. My kids asked me if I could change jobs.”
Fleet, who receives daily threats, noted that her family initially discouraged her from pursuing a political career due to concerns over her safety. After a graphic online threat was shared by a local politician, she felt compelled to contact the police, illustrating the pervasive atmosphere of fear surrounding MPs today.
Addressing the Root Causes
The Democracy Protection Portfolio, which Balmer oversees, has emerged in light of an inquiry into the safety of MPs and candidates. This inquiry revealed that a staggering 96% of MPs have encountered threatening behaviour or communication. Balmer acknowledged the troubling trend of both online and offline targeting, particularly against women and ethnic minority candidates.
He remarked, “It’s not lost on me that these are not idle threats. Tragically, we have had two cases in recent memory where those threats have been carried out.” The need for robust protective measures is more pressing than ever.
Why it Matters
The establishment of the national democracy protection unit highlights a critical moment in the UK’s political landscape. As threats against MPs escalate, the safety of elected representatives is paramount to maintaining a healthy democratic process. The ability of politicians to engage freely with their constituents without fear of violence is essential for the integrity of democracy itself. Without effective action, the very fabric of political discourse could be further eroded, leading to a chilling effect on public service and civic engagement.
