In an increasingly interconnected world, the value of global policing cooperation has never been more crucial. The modern landscape of transnational crime transcends borders, infiltrating societies in ways we could not have imagined a few decades ago. 

Yet, amid these complex challenges, there lies an opportunity, a call to action for a unified global response. Our ability to collaborate effectively across nations is not merely a strategic advantage; it is the cornerstone of true police integrity.

It is through international oversight and collective commitment that we solidify our shared values, enhance ethical conduct, and ensure justice for all. 

Having served the police organisation for more than 30 years both nationally and internationally, I can conclude that at the heart of the police mission is the recognition that no single country, no matter how resourceful, can combat the multifaceted threats of terrorism, human trafficking, cybercrime, intellectual property crimes, and organised crime alone. 

We can agree to a larger extent that the fight against these issues requires robust alliances built on trust, shared intelligence and a commitment to accountability. 

Given the proceeding sentiment, it is worthwhile to emphasise that law-enforcement agencies find strength, not in isolation, but in solidarity, through the framework of cooperation. 

As already stated, serving as a member of the police for over 30 years has further increased my appetite for acknowledging that the integrity of policing is shaped by our capacity to engage across borders, uphold justice with transparency, and ensure that our collective values are reflected in our actions. 

To give a fair analysis of my discourse, let me also pinpoint that global policing collaboration is not without its challenges. Cultural differences, varied legal systems and geopolitical dynamics often pose hurdles that must be navigated with sensitivity and wisdom. 

Notably, these very challenges are what make international policing partnerships indispensable. They compel us to transcend individual perspectives and align with a higher standard of ethics and fairness that transcends national interests. 

Therefore, international oversight plays a pivotal role in this endeavour. Far from being an intrusion, it is a vital mechanism that strengthens our collective resolve. It holds us accountable to the highest standards of conduct, and ensures that our actions, no matter where they take place, align with the global expectations of justice and accepted human policing standards of behaviour.

Viewed within this lens, to a larger extent, we may all agree that international oversight is not a constraint,but a powerful force that enhances the credibility and legitimacy of policing efforts across the globe. 

This understanding is aligned with this year’s theme of the United Nations International Day of Police Cooperation, which is ‘Police integrity, accountability and oversight’. 

It places special emphasis on the need to enhance understanding of the positive impact of policing and law-enforcement on communities worldwide. Undoubtedly, the pursuit of police integrity on a global scale is, at its core, a pursuit of trust. 

Trust between nations, trust between law-enforcement agencies, and most importantly, trust between police organisations and the communities they serve. It is through trust that we can build bridges, dismantle crime syndicates and foster environments of peace and security. Integrity is not an abstract principle; it is the tangible result of collective action and mutual accountability.

As we look towards the future, the path forward for policing in Africa and beyond must be one of collaboration, ethical leadership and unwavering integrity. With a unified approach to international policing, we can create a safer, more just world – the one where law-enforcement is not only effective but also deeply trusted by the people it serves. 

Together, through global partnerships and a shared commitment to ethical conduct, we can rise to meet the challenges of today and tomorrow.

Before I conclude, allow me to state that going into the future, the impact of police oversights and international police cooperation will rely on those we entrust with police leadership. Together, we can transform the landscape of global policing and make a lasting impact on the security and peace of nations globally.

*Anne-Marie Nainda writes in her capacity, and her views do not necessarily reflect those of any police organisations.