Strong Communities, Respectful Debate

Garve and District Community Council

Added at 13:05 on 22 April 2026

Across the Highlands, there has long been a strong sense of community, where people may not always agree, but where discussions are grounded in mutual respect and a shared understanding of place. It is therefore deeply concerning to see the tone of online commentary during this election period becoming increasingly hostile.

Those standing for election, along with those who support them, are being subjected to remarks that stray far beyond legitimate scrutiny. Instead of focusing on policies, experience, or commitment to local issues, commentary is turning towards abusive personal attacks.

This shift does not exist in isolation. The language and attitudes appearing online reflect a broader deterioration in public discourse, often driven by more extreme voices and amplified through social media. If it goes unchallenged, there is a real risk that this behaviour becomes accepted as the norm within our own communities.

The consequences are significant. Such hostility discourages people from stepping forward to represent their communities, limits the diversity of voices in local decision-making, and ultimately weakens the quality of democratic discussion across the Highlands.

We all share responsibility for the tone of that discussion. Online platforms may feel informal, but they are very much part of our public space. How we choose to engage there should reflect the kind of Highland communities we want to live in and pass on ones built on fairness, respect, and open but constructive dialogue.

Disagreement is both natural and necessary. Abuse is not.

If we are serious about encouraging participation and maintaining respect in public life, misogynistic and personal attacks cannot be brushed aside as “just the internet”. They must be challenged, called out, and refused any sense of acceptance. At election time, there is a clear opportunity to reject division and hostility, and to support a more respectful, community-minded approach to politics.

Your vote matters please use it.