In an alarming response to a surge in threats against Members of Parliament, a new national democracy protection unit is being established to bolster security for elected officials. Police chief Chris Balmer will head this initiative, aimed at tackling a dramatic increase in reported anti-democratic crimes, which have more than doubled since 2019, reaching nearly 1,000 incidents last year alone.
Surge in Threats Against Politicians
Figures released to the BBC reveal that reports of crimes committed against MPs soared from 364 in 2019 to 976 in 2025. The most common offences include malicious communications, which accounted for over 2,000 incidents during the six-year period, alongside harassment and property damage. Disturbingly, the number of death threats reported has also risen, with 50 cases noted in 2025, compared to 31 the previous year.
Security Minister Dan Jarvis highlighted the unprecedented nature of these threats, stating that the “volume, breadth, and tempo” of hostility directed at elected representatives is alarming. In light of this, Balmer’s role will involve coordinating intelligence, advising police on the classification of anti-democratic crimes, and providing specialised support to those investigating such offences.
The Human Cost of Political Targeting
For many MPs, the rise in threats has taken a significant toll on their personal lives. Labour MP Kim Leadbeater, sister of the late Jo Cox, expressed concern that the political climate has worsened in the years following her sister’s murder. “This is a problem for our democracy, but it’s also indicative of broader societal issues regarding our ability to engage with one another,” she said.
Sam Rushworth, another Labour MP, faced a troubling situation when he received repeated death threats from a constituent. The threats prompted him to enhance security measures at home, including the installation of panic buttons. Reflecting on the impact of this ordeal, he revealed, “My wife asked me if we could move. My kids asked if I could change jobs.” Rushworth attributed the escalating hostility to a toxic mix of political rhetoric and media narratives, particularly against Labour MPs.
Daily Dangers for Elected Officials
Natalie Fleet, another Labour MP, shared her harrowing experiences of daily death threats. She recounted a specific incident where a social media post appeared to incite violence against her, leading her to contact the police amid a spike in graphic threats. “I’ve never had as much contact with the police as I have in this job,” Fleet said, lamenting the time spent on safety concerns instead of engaging with constituents.
The Democracy Protection Portfolio, which will operate under the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC), was established following an inquiry into the security of MPs and election candidates. Findings from the inquiry revealed that an overwhelming 96% of MPs had experienced threatening behaviour or communication in some form.
A Focus on Vulnerable Candidates
Balmer has acknowledged that the threats are not just abstract dangers; they are real and often targeted at specific groups. He noted that female candidates and individuals from ethnic minorities face a disproportionate level of harassment. “These are not idle threats,” he cautioned, referencing the tragic murders of Jo Cox and Sir David Amess as stark reminders of the potential consequences of unchecked aggression.
Why it Matters
The establishment of the national democracy protection unit is a critical step in addressing the escalating violence against MPs. As threats continue to rise, the safety of elected officials is paramount for the health of democracy itself. Ensuring that politicians can perform their duties without fear is essential not only for their well-being but also for the public’s trust in the democratic process. This initiative reflects a growing recognition of the need for robust measures to protect those who represent the interests of the nation.
