Poster #68 - Drivers of Change in Police Practice and Policy: A Multi-country Comparison

• In Event: ASC Poster Session I

Abstract

This qualitative study investigates how terrorism and civil disorder contribute to changes in police practice and policy. A significant of focus of the work was the militarisation of the police, and the future role and needs of law enforcement. Recognising that law enforcement agencies operate within evolving social and political environments, the project focuses on understanding the role of major crime and social events in shaping institutional, policy and cultural change in the police. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with current and former police personnel in Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Interviews focused on operational change and adaption, cultural dynamics within policing, and forecasting future policing issues.
Preliminary analysis suggests an underlying relationship between the militarisation of policing and perceived threats from terrorism and civil disorder. These influences vary across jurisdictions, with different implications for practice and policy. Participants had different conceptualisations of militarisation, but raised concerns about how militarised approaches may affect the legitimacy of policing and challenge the sustainability of community policing models. While analysis is ongoing, the findings point to key tensions between public expectations, officer safety, and preparedness in the face of emerging security issues.

Author

• Hunter Culbong, The Australian National University