Compliance and police and legitimacy in Iceland

• In Event: Legitimacy

Abstract

Previous research indicates a correlation between perceptions of police legitimacy and willingness to cooperate with law enforcement. Socio-psychological factors, including gender, age, education, fear of crime, and past interactions with the police, also play a significant role in shaping attitudes towards law enforcement agencies.
In Iceland, victimization surveys consistently reveal high levels of legitimacy, trust, and satisfaction with the police. Leveraging longitudinal victimization survey data, this study explores the evolving dynamics between attitudes towards the police and reporting behavior. Additionally, it investigates how demographic characteristics, fear of crime, and past interactions with law enforcement contribute to variations in attitudes towards the police and reporting behavior over the past 16 years.
Such research holds immense value for law enforcement agencies as it provides valuable insights into how trust and legitimacy affect their ability to perform their duties effectively. Understanding the factors influencing public perceptions can help police departments tailor their approaches, policies, and community engagement efforts to foster positive relationships with the communities they serve.

Author

• Rannveig Þórisdóttir, National Police Commissioner of Iceland