Operating within Efus, EU-POLNET is a European network dedicated to strengthening the expertise of local police forces and promoting their role in urban security at both the European and international levels. Through peer-to-peer exchanges, the network fosters the sharing of promising practices & innovative initiatives, and facilitates training and collaboration between local and regional police forces across Europe.

Efus has been working on policing issues since it was founded in 1987, and has set out its position in its Manifesto. It emphasises the importance of „basing the doctrine of police action on the principles of co-production and community policing“ and „organising the police on the basis of a partnership approach“. It calls for institutions „to operate and be organised“ in such a way as to ensure that „the expectations and needs of citizens for their day-to-day problems are given the same priority as emergencies and major crime issues“.

Organised as part of the PACTESUR 2 project, the Local Police Academies are bringing together more than 50 local police officers from 14 cities from all over Europe. These academies are combining theory and practical activities, focusing on real-world application and sharing operational protocols.

EU-POLNET priorities: Public spaces, community policing, diversity, recruitment & retention, coordination with local services.