OSCE continues training seminars for police on risk profiling techniques in Kazakhstan

An OSCE-supported three-day train-the-trainer course for law enforcement personnel on psychological profiling techniques to be used when policing large-scale events concluded in Karaganda, Kazakhstan, on 3 November 2017.

Some 30 mid-level officers from the Karaganda Academy under the Interior Ministry of Kazakhstan learned about observational psychology during mass events. Experts focused on topics including identifying the elements of risk profiles, crowd mentality and psychological methods of influencing an aggressive crowd and exercises to improve visual memory, concentration and attention.

The officers also familiarized themselves with different risk indicators and the ways these indicators can be used in real-life situations. A number of practical exercises provided the participants with the opportunity to apply their newly-acquired skills. A draft handbook for police instructors was reviewed at the conclusion of the event.

The training, co-organized by the OSCE Programme Office in Astana and the Karaganda Police Academy under the Interior Ministry, was led by experts from the Association of Psychologists and Behavioural Therapists of Kazakhstan. The course is developed for the Police Academy instructors to equip them with knowledge of how to organize specialized training sessions on profiling techniques.

The event is part of the OSCE Programme Office in Astana’s activities to enhance security, increase accountability, and promote best practices in security at large-scale events.