OSCE policing experts share plans to improve anti-crime action across region

Experts in policing from the OSCE region meet in Vienna from 24 to 25 October 2013 to identify how to build on present practice to best tackle criminal threats to security despite the economic downturn.

The annual meeting looks at how organized crime, terrorism, illicit drugs, human trafficking and cyber-crime can be tackled through improved crime prevention, community-based policing, and strategic planning.

It will also look at ways to promote democratic policing, first and foremost through a community policing approach. This is at the core of OSCE police-related activities, helping participating States improve law enforcement responses, prevent conflict and manage crises. Around 130 international police officers work within field operations and the OSCE Secretariat.

The meeting brings together law enforcement authorities, the private sector, academia and international organizations to discuss ways in which the OSCE can contribute to stopping crime, including the activities of organised criminal groups. According to EUROPOL, such groups number around 3,600 in the EU alone.

Opening the meeting, Ambassador Ihor Prokopchuk, Chairperson of the OSCE Permanent Council, stressed the importance of democratic policing and encouraged discussion on how the OSCE could assist states to improve the functioning of law enforcement whilst upholding the rule of law and respecting human rights and fundamental freedoms.

OSCE Secretary General Lamberto Zannier said that over the years, the OSCE had accumulated a wealth of experience and good practice. The challenge now was to identify the most effective ways to make improvements in a difficult economic environment.

“We should always strive to update and enhance our joint responses to criminal activities and schemes, which are constantly evolving. This requires adjusting OSCE strategies and mechanisms to the emerging trends,” he said.