In the last two decades, European governments and institutions have framed policing in ways which align to the broader values of freedom, the rule of law and – crucially – human rights. The actions of police officers represent the difference between having rights respected in theory, and having them protected in practice. However, many migrants and refugees in Europe find their human rights violated by police officers and private security personnel – the very people entrusted with guaranteeing these fundamental protections ‘on the ground’.
In our new booklet, Framing Human Policing: Towards a more just public service, QCEA makes the case that twenty-first century policing should aspire to be the largest human rights profession, backed up by policies which emphasise the universal protections we all enjoy. In short, policing should uphold the rights of everyone, everywhere.