Keeping the Peace: Why Local Candidates Need De-escalation Skills

Today's local elections need people who know how to de-escalate situations when tensions rise. This ability is now essential for anyone hoping to serve effectively in local government. Even for those experienced councillors, there is every advantage in refreshing these skills of personal and public safety.  Too often incidents of public engagement and accessibility are put ahead of personal safety.  

Council members regularly face confrontation in various settings. Town hall meetings can quickly become heated when controversial topics are discussed. Public events might attract frustrated citizens who express their concerns forcefully. When making home visits to discuss local issues, representatives may unexpectedly encounter hostile reactions. Even walking through shopping centres or parks, elected officials can be approached by upset constituents wanting immediate answers to complex problems. To quote Kenny Rogers, “you need to know when to walk away”.  

We are not suggesting that candidates refuse to engage.  Good de-escalation practices create space for genuine dialogue, even during disagreements. Representatives who handle difficult encounters well earn respect from community members, including those with opposing views. However, they must be equipped to navigate tense situations without allowing them to spiral into unproductive/unsafe conflict.

And it’s not just the immediate incident that is a concern.  OPSEC is privy to a growing number of council staff and officials - still suffering from incidents that have happened months, or even years ago.  

If your council or community group works with new or existing councillors, OPSEC offers specialised training workshops tailored to those unique challenges faced by local representatives. Our team provides practical de-escalation training for various scenarios, from public meetings to unexpected encounters. Contact OPSEC today to arrange a workshop that will help support and strengthen our governing officials for the sake of our local communities.