P128. Understanding interorganizational cross-border collaboration in crime control

• In Event: Poster Session & Ice Cream Social

Abstract

The aim of this poster presentation is to address how cross-border collaboration in crime control between public organizations such as police forces, public prosecution services, and municipalities can be better understood and potentially enhanced. The poster specifically presents some of the outcomes of an ongoing research project into interorganizational and cross-border collaboration (to combat crime) in the Euregion Meuse-Rhine (EMR). Cross-border crimes in this particular Belgian-Dutch-German region have been identified as a significant problem. Some of the often-heard, but not always well-researched, challenges include divergent national political agendas, and limited operational capacity. Besides these cross-border dimensions, there are also interorganizational aspects to consider. Interorganizational studies research indicates conflicting priorities and cultural differences as inhibitors of interorganizational collaboration, while geographical proximity and trust are seen as drivers.

Given the co-creative nature of the wider research project, a survey was set up in collaboration with representatives from the police, public prosecution services, and municipalities of the three EMR countries. The inclusion of municipalities as a stakeholder is unique in this type of research. To our knowledge, this is the first survey of its kind for the EMR involving such a wide variety of stakeholders. Some 600+ surveys were returned from among the core EMR organizations involved, allowing comparisons to be drawn both across borders as well as across organizations. The objective was not only to offer input for the next steps of the wider research project, but also to unravel blind spots in current knowledge and understanding of cross-border and interorganizational collaboration. For example, participants were asked to rate the ease of communication, assess their levels of trust in the collaboration, and provide suggestions on how to improve collaborations. The poster will present the main outcomes of the survey and highlight novel insights.

Authors

• Helena Zwart, University Maastricht

• Sem Jans, Maastricht University