Macquarie University

International Policing Systems - PICT843

Historically, policing and law enforcement has been a localised function, reflecting the customs, practices and traditions of an identifiable community. The fact that there are still less than 10 policing organisations in the western world with a staffing component of more than 10,000 yet a policing population that numbers in the millions only serves to reinforce the perspective that even in the modern context policing has a local community based focus. However, that is not the case in developing and 3rd world countries. These are characterised by large centralised militaristic organisations that have a greater focus on order and status quo than in engagement and partnerships. This unit provides students with the opportunity to investigate law enforcement and policing options with respect to the influences of social systems, legal systems, economic development, conflict and globalisation of crime. Students will develop an understanding of the advantages/disadvantages of current systems, the possible impacts of future developments and the impact of globalisation on law enforcement. As part of that understanding, a select number of specific current, key international issues will be reviewed.