Background

Police Scotland developed its first National and International Development Strategy in March 2016 outlining a plan to “Keep People Safe” through reaching out to prevent and detect crime, manage demand, innovate, share best practice and support the stabilisation of countries across the globe.

It was acknowledged then and it remains that Police Scotland needs to think beyond our own borders and learn how other countries of similar scale or with similar communities deliver policing. There is a need to continue to adapt and change as global events impact on our communities and there is a clear requirement to equip our officers and staff with increased knowledge of different cultures, religions and ethnicities to better understand their needs and ensure we provide a service fitting for all of society.

The Police Scotland ‘International Academy’ was formally opened at Police Headquarters in July 2021, bringing together all elements of non-operational international work and enabling opportunities to promote, extend and enhance our international work globally and for the benefits of the communities in Scotland.

The focus of the IDIU is to effectively utilise our capability as a national police service to enable us to contribute as a global citizen, supporting others through training and development towards achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Police Scotland works beyond Goal 16 of peace, justice and strong institutions to make a positive difference across other goals; including Goal 5 gender equality, Goal 10 reduced inequalities and Goal 11 for sustainable cities and communities.

Since the last SPA update report, Police Scotland’s international work has continued to grow both in terms of “outgoing” business where officers and staff are deployed abroad to deliver or participate in projects/operations, as well as “incoming” work where bespoke thematic programmes have been developed and delivered, showcasing the strengths, knowledge and expertise that exists within our organisation and workforce.

Police Scotland’s reputation in this field of work is held in high regard, with many of the recent enquiries to the IDIU resulting from word of mouth recommendations from agencies or other police services around the world who have worked with the department. The demand on the team continues to grow, offering clear opportunity to enhance and extend Police Scotland’s international work and influence, building our global contribution, reputation and opportunity for learning.

The Police Scotland International Development Strategy details three strategic outcomes as:

• Enhanced global opportunities to positively contribute to and deliver police training, development and support for benefits of communities in Scotland and internationally, aligned to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals;

• Effective and productive partnership networks, working collaboratively with those who reflect Police Scotland’s values and ethics and enabling innovation and learning to explore new ways of working;

• Increased skills, knowledge and understanding of international communities within our workforce, positively influencing and sharing best practice, which is reflected in our approach.