The security of politicians: towards a research agenda

Haughey, Sean ORCID: 0000-0001-7378-086X and Neil, Matthews (2024) The security of politicians: towards a research agenda Parliamentary Affairs, 78 (2). pp. 227-256. ISSN 0031-2290, 1460-2482

PDF gsae015.pdf - Open Access published version Download (819kB) | Preview

Abstract

Members of Parliament (MPs) are increasingly experimenting with a variety of measures to protect their personal security. This trend is particularly evident at the local level, with MPs adjusting their constituency service on security grounds in ways that likely affect how they interact with constituents. Despite potentially significant representative implications, these enhanced security measures have yet to be problematized in detail. This article calls for a new research agenda to address this deficit. Exploring some of the anecdotal evidence, we highlight potential trade-offs arising from a more securitized constituency service experience, noting, in particular, costs pertaining to (1) accessibility, (2) symbolism, and (3) resources. We conclude by sketching out the broad parameters of a multi-method, multi-level, and multi-disciplinary research agenda on the security of politicians.

Item Type:	Article
Uncontrolled Keywords:	constituency service, MPs, political violence, representation, security
Depositing User:	Symplectic Admin
Date Deposited:	18 Jul 2024 10:10
Last Modified:	28 Feb 2026 14:34
DOI:	10.1093/pa/gsae015
Related Websites:	Author Publisher
URI:	https://livrepository.liverpool.ac.uk/id/eprint/3182992
Disclaimer:	The University of Liverpool is not responsible for content contained on other websites from links within repository metadata. Please contact us if you notice anything that appears incorrect or inappropriate.