Compassionate Political Leadership is Possible and lets take hope from that
As we navigate what seems to be the continual onslaught of bad news about politics, it is important to focus on the positive when we can.
At Compassion in Politics, we want to see a political landscape where everyone’s view is expressed with civility and heard with respect. Right now, the sands are shifting and those goals may seem out of reach, but they are not.
I’ve been reflecting on the impact that even one MP can have when they approach a contested topic with sensitivity and respect. And how removing party politics from an issue, can allow for a genuine exchange of ideas rather than a binary battle between warring tribes.
This was the case with the debate on the Assisted Dying Bill. For once the Commons sat in silence, allowing every view and every voice to be heard.
The issues were complex and the subject matter heart rending. MPs were obliged to examine their consciences and beliefs and arrive at their own conclusions thanks to all parties allowing a free vote.
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Kim Leadbetter, the MP who proposed the bill said, “Whatever happens with the bill, it's so good that people are talking about these issues. We are talking about palliative care, we are talking about disabled rights, we are talking about death, and we don’t do that very well in this country.
Whatever else happens, I am so proud of the way people are having those conversations up and down the country.”
In contrast to the divisive narratives that have dominated public conversation on hotly contested issues, this debate was conducted with compassion on all sides... As Dame Sarah Mullaly, the Bishop of London, remarked, “I have been deeply moved watching proceedings unfold in the House of Commons today. My prayers are with all those who have been affected...” Such voices remind us that empathy and understanding are crucial in navigating complex societal challenges.
With 75% of the public supporting assisted dying, the debate could have easily spiralled into the division we saw during the EU Referendum. Yet, thanks to Kim Leadbetter’s leadership, the Commons debate was marked by respect and compassion. As she reminded us of the words of her sister, the late Jo Cox MP, “We have more in common than that which divides us.”
Even seasoned political commentators like Sky’s Beth Rigby were moved, “I have watched hundreds of hours of parliamentary debates... and I can honestly say that the five hours of discussion I witnessed in the Commons were some of the most memorable, moving, and humane exchanges I have ever seen.”
This moment serves as a template for how we can conduct politics moving forward, both within Parliament and in our everyday discussions. By fostering a culture of compassionate leadership, we have the opportunity to build bridges rather than walls, ensuring that our political environment becomes one where dialogue is valued over division.
Let us hold onto this example as we continue to engage with one another on pressing issues during these turbulent times. Together, we can cultivate a more respectful and understanding political landscape.
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