Police and Public Order in Europe

Police and Public Order in Europe, published in 1985, explores the development of the police in Western Europe and how their functions have changed over time. The book examines the experience of one country while considering the practices of other countries, highlighting the increasing importance of the police in maintaining public order in the early 1980s due to terrorist activities and general popular unrest.

Format: Hardback
Length: 294 pages
Publication date: 31 March 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Originally published in 1985, Police and Public Order in Europe delves into the evolution of law enforcement in Western Europe, exploring how police functions have transformed over time. Each contributor takes a country-specific perspective while also considering the practices of other nations.

In the early 1980s, the role of the police in maintaining public order assumed paramount significance. The activities of terrorists from various political ideologies, including Left-wing groups in Italy, Spain, and West Germany, as well as the Irish Republican Army (IRA) in Great Britain, had long captured the attention of governments and the public. However, a more concerning phenomenon emerged: the rise in general levels of popular unrest, leading to significant riots and looting in British cities, as well as often violent confrontations between the police and a growing number of protesters in other European countries. These events garnered widespread media coverage, raising concerns about public order among governments, law enforcement agencies, and the general public.

At this juncture, the role of the police in Western Europe became deeply political. The police were no longer solely responsible for maintaining law and order; they were also expected to address social and political issues that contributed to unrest. This shift in focus required the police to adopt a more proactive and empathetic approach to their duties, working closely with communities to address underlying causes of crime and disorder.

One of the key challenges facing the police in Western Europe was the rise of organized crime. The criminal organizations, often operating across national borders, posed a significant threat to public safety and security. The police needed to develop new strategies and technologies to combat these organizations, including joint operations, intelligence-sharing, and targeted enforcement efforts.

Another area of concern was the increasing diversity of the population in Western Europe. The growing number of immigrants and refugees in many countries created challenges for law enforcement, as they often faced discrimination and social exclusion. The police needed to be sensitive to these issues and work towards building trust and understanding within communities of diverse backgrounds.

In conclusion, Police and Public Order in Europe provides a comprehensive examination of the development of the police in Western Europe and the challenges they face in maintaining public order. The book highlights the political nature of the police role and the need for law enforcement agencies to adapt to changing social and political landscapes. By adopting a proactive and empathetic approach, the police can play a vital role in building safer and more inclusive communities.

Dimension: 216 x 138 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032426617