– There are tough debates going on about the school structure, which creates great commitment among the citizens. It is then important that we as elected representatives take responsibility for a debate climate that does not contribute to incitement and harassment, says KS’s chairman Gunn Marit Helgesen in a statement.
KS’ chairman is very concerned about the debate climate in the debate about school structure in the interior. Debates about school structure are also taking place elsewhere in the country.
– Politicians at all levels must be role models. We must treat each other with respect, even when we deeply disagree, says Helgesen.
The municipalities’ interest organization recalls a survey from last year, which showed that 40 per cent of elected representatives in municipalities and county councils have experienced being subjected to hate speech, threats or both. Young people and women are most at risk.
– Elected representatives will have to make many difficult choices in the coming years, because oil revenues will fall and because there will be more elderly people and fewer young people. Services such as school, health and care must change, they will not be exactly as before. As politicians, we must manage this together with the citizens, without scolding each other, says Helgesen.
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Interview with Gunn Marit Helgesen, Chairman of KS
Editor: Thank you for joining us, Gunn Marit Helgesen. In light of the ongoing debates surrounding school structures, you’ve expressed concerns about the current debate climate among citizens and politicians. Can you elaborate on why you believe a respectful dialogue is essential in these discussions?
Helgesen: Absolutely. The debates about school structure impact our community deeply, and we all have a stake in the outcome. It’s crucial that we, as elected representatives, foster a climate of respect and understanding. We may disagree on how best to structure our schools, but that disagreement should not devolve into incitement or harassment. We can be passionate about our viewpoints without resorting to personal attacks.
Editor: You mentioned a survey indicating that 40% of elected representatives have faced hate speech or threats. Why do you think this issue is particularly pronounced in discussions about school structure?
Helgesen: The school structure debate is particularly contentious because it directly affects families and children’s futures. When citizens feel strongly about their children’s education, emotions can run high. Unfortunately, this can lead to an environment where people feel justified in attacking those who hold differing views. It’s crucial that we recognize the unique stakes involved and work toward a more constructive dialogue.
Editor: Considering the demographic changes and economic factors you highlighted—like falling oil revenues and an aging population—what do you envision as the key priorities for politicians moving forward?
Helgesen: We face tough decisions ahead, and it’s essential that we communicate those decisions clearly to the public. Priorities include ensuring our educational systems are robust and adaptable, that health and care services meet the needs of an aging population, and that we do so with transparency and collaboration. We need to invite citizens into this process rather than shutting them out with hostility.
Editor: How can citizens play a constructive role in these debates to help mitigate the incitement you’ve described?
Helgesen: Citizens can engage in these discussions by actively listening and being open to opposing viewpoints. Rather than framing debates as battles to win, we should see them as opportunities for collective improvement. It’s all about building a community where everyone feels safe to express their thoughts and where we can learn from each other.
Editor: to our readers: How do you believe we can create a more respectful and productive debate environment regarding school structures and other important community issues? What role do you think political representatives and citizens play in ensuring a civil discourse? Let’s discuss.
Ed to express their frustrations through hostility rather than constructive dialogue. It’s essential that we, as leaders, acknowledge these emotional stakes but also guide discussions towards mutual respect and understanding.
Editor: You also highlighted that young people and women are particularly vulnerable to such negativity. What measures do you think can be implemented to protect these individuals while ensuring a healthy debate climate?
Helgesen: First and foremost, we need to establish clear guidelines for acceptable behavior during debates both online and offline. Educational programs on digital citizenship and respect could help raise awareness about the impacts of hate speech. Additionally, it’s vital for us as leaders to speak out against these behaviors and support those who have been targeted. We should also create platforms for constructive engagement, allowing people to voice their opinions without fear of harassment.
Editor: With the impending challenges like decreasing oil revenues and an aging population, how can politicians balance these tough choices while keeping community discussions respectful?
Helgesen: We must approach these challenges collaboratively. Communication is key. By engaging citizens in transparent discussions about the reasons behind difficult decisions, we can cultivate a sense of partnership. Highlighting the impacts of these changes on essential services like education and healthcare can foster empathy and understanding. If citizens recognize that these decisions are made with their best interests at heart, they are more likely to engage respectfully, even when opinions differ.
Editor: Thank you, Gunn Marit Helgesen, for shedding light on these important issues. Your commitment to fostering a respectful debate climate is commendable.
Helgesen: Thank you for having me. It’s a collective responsibility, and I hope we can all work together for a positive outcome.
