Stephen Carter
Election address
I’ve seen the crisis of our democracy at first hand, working in journalism, politics, and as an anti-corruption campaigner. Unlock Democracy’s work is more important than ever, and once again I would like to continue supporting that work on Council.
I have served five terms now on both the Unlock Democracy and Rodell boards, giving me a long-term perspective on our work and experience of what we’ve got right and what we’ve got wrong. For the last term, I’ve been Vice-Chair for Rodell, supporting some challenging work to make better use of the two London properties which are our main assets. I’ve also served on the UD Management Board, meaning that I am active on all of our governance bodies.
I’ve previously served as the Vice-Chair for Policy, and have always been an active contributor in the strategy discussions in council. I have also played my part in more day to day efforts to strengthen the organisation.
I’ve taken an active part in helping both organisations get through some tough times. We’re in a stronger position now, and with a better direction than we have been for years – while we still have with some difficult hurdles to overcome, we have huge opportunities as well.
The UK is more than ever in a state of constitutional crisis: the dysfunctional settlement between regions, nations and centre threatens the integrity of the whole country, the injustice of the electoral system is increasingly impossible to disguise, and local government is suffering as the government pursues the illusion of levelling up and devolution, and a reality of budget cuts and central control.
I’ve long pushed for us to have a bolder approach. I want us to rethink our campaign strategy both to deal with our likely reduced circumstances, and to build on the work we have done in recent years.
I am currently working as senior advisor to the Mayor of Sheffield City Region – at the sharp end of devolved government and with a front-row seat on some of the biggest issues we deal with. Previously I worked as a campaigner and researcher on human rights, conflict and corruption, heading the Afghanistan campaign for Global Witness, an international civil society organisation working against corruption and conflict. I also worked extensively in parliament.
I would be happy to answer any questions UD members might have –I can be reached at postcarter@gmail.com