The contribution of local safety councils to local responsibility in crime prevention and provision of safety

Abstract

Abstract Purpose – The purpose of the paper is to explore some dimensions of the community policing strategy of the Slovene police, which emphasizes establishment, reinforcement and maintenance of good relations with local communities and new organized ways of setting of priorities in crime prevention and provision of local safety at the local level (i.e. local safety councils). In addition, the paper seeks to present the development of local safety and security efforts in Slovenia based on ideas of making local communities responsible and on partnership in setting priorities in safety/security efforts, prevention of everyday criminal offences and public disorder. Design/methodology/approach – The authors have conducted a study on a sample of 178 representatives of local safety councils in several Slovenian towns. The study focused on the functioning of local safety councils in Slovenia and dealt with advantages and obstacles related to the work of such councils. The authors also reflected on the councils within a broader concept of democratisation and inclusion of citizens in crime prevention and partnership‐oriented local problem solving. Findings – Findings show the development of some dimensions of community policing safety, especially democratic ways in setting priorities in local safety and crime prevention efforts. Despite some obstacles, the main advantages of such councils are as follows: democratisation of formal social control and control over the police; cooperation of (responsible) citizens and knowing one another; development of more active cooperation between all local key persons; facilitating of "safety consciousness" and discussions on local problems and "communities that care" mentality. Research limitations/implications – The present research used both quantitative and qualitative approaches, which gave a relatively clear overview of the situation studied. A possible problem in studying priorities in crime prevention and safety provision can be related to the population, which attended the local safety council meetings. They do not necessarily represent the public opinion of local citizens but opinions of local élites dealing with crime and public security issues. Practical implications – The main implications of the paper for policy makers and practitioners are challenges to the further development of local crime prevention efforts, which should be based on partnership, good knowledge (information‐ and knowledge‐based decision making), clear rules or legal framework, financing and accountability. Originality/value – The paper presents the first such study conducted in a post‐socialist country, and presents some ideas for the development of common efforts in local (communal) crime prevention and efforts for a safer life in local communities.

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