**Police Association Sounds Alarm Over Systemic Problems**
A police professional association in Serbia has sounded the alarm over the failure to resolve systemic problems that are disrupting the role of the police in society. In an open letter to Internal Affairs Minister Ivica Dacic, the Dr Rudolph Archibald Reiss Association expressed concern over the passivity in addressing issues that damage the reputation, functioning, and security role of the police.
The association cited the results of a poll of police officers, which showed staggering levels of discontent. A whopping 46.1 percent of respondents do not trust their immediate superiors, while more than 70 percent said they were subjected to political pressure. Additionally, 58.3 percent believe that professional standards have dropped, and 80 percent think their superiors are not reacting properly in crises. Perhaps most concerning is the fact that 92 percent of police officers feel unprotected in the field.
The concerns expressed by the association are echoed by the public. A poll showed that there is very little trust in the police among the general population, with many perceiving them as being instrumentalized by politicians rather than serving the law and the public.
**Commentary**
This development raises serious questions about the effectiveness of the police service in Serbia. When over 90 percent of police officers feel unprotected on the job, it’s clear that there are systemic problems that need to be addressed urgently. The lack of trust among both police officers and the public is a ticking time bomb, threatening the very fabric of law enforcement.
The association’s call for a fundamental reform of the ministry and the police service is well-timed. It’s not just about fixing individual issues; it’s about creating a culture of transparency, accountability, and professionalism within the police force. The government must take heed of these concerns and work towards rebuilding trust in the institution.
**Deeper Analysis**
The data presented by the association paints a bleak picture of a police service that is struggling to maintain its integrity. When nearly half of police officers don‘t trust their immediate superiors, it’s clear that there are issues with leadership and management within the organization.
Moreover, the fact that 70 percent of police officers feel subjected to political pressure suggests that the service is being used as a tool for political gain rather than serving the law and the public. This is a recipe for disaster, leading to a breakdown in trust between the police and the community they serve.
The government must take immediate action to address these concerns. A fundamental reform of the ministry and the police service is needed to restore professionalism, rebuild trust, and ensure that the police are serving the law and the public, not party interests.