Police, Security & Democracy: A Police Perspective of the Russian Experience During Times of Transition (From Policing, Security and Democracy: Theory and Practice, P 239-258, 2001, Menachem Amir, Stanley Einstein, eds., -- See NCJ-192667)

• NCJ Number: 192679
• Author(s): Alexander Yelin
• Date Published: 2001
• Length: 20 pages
• Sale Source: Office of International Criminal Justice
• Publication Format: Book (Softbound)
• Publication Type: Issue Overview
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This paper presents, from the practitioner's point of view, current problems in the development of the police force in Russia since Perestroika.

Abstract

The paper also outlines key areas where urgent measures are needed to ensure further democratization of policing. In the early 1990's some radical changes were made to the law enforcement system of Russia, but the system slipped back into stagnation. This paper claims that the way to more democratic policing is through ensuring openness in police work, its availability for public scrutiny, and community involvement. First, it is necessary to develop a state strategy for combating crime and to adopt laws to create a legal framework for the operation of law enforcement agencies. In parallel, it is essential to modernize and democratize all components of the law enforcement system, the criminal justice system, and the penitentiary institutions. The paper also recommends, among other changes: (1) a national crime monitoring service that would be independent of law enforcement agencies; (2) reduction in support services; (3) reduction in paperwork; (4) reductions in the patrol police and traffic police service; and (5) community involvement in maintaining "law and order." Notes, references