Policing in divided societies. (2013)

Abstract

This thesis compares models of policing in divided societies as applied in Lebanon and Northern Ireland and highlights the advantages and disadvantages of each. This is particularly significant due to the fact that both Lebanon and Northern Ireland have been challenged in their law enforcement abilities while confronted by a fragmented sectarian politics. Communal perception of law enforcement practices are typically shaped by strong sectarian biases that often undermine the effective application of the law. The thesis explores the reasons why the police force in Lebanon has not been able to gain public confidence. Comparative public opinion data from both countries are collected and analyzed. Results suggest that enhancing public confidence in Lebanese police force and strengthening positive public perception in the country‟s law enforcement agencies require strong communal interventions .Lessons drawn from the Northern Irish experience and analysis of Lebanese public opinion data suggest that in a post-conflict situation Community Oriented Policing (COP)needs to be combined with Problem Oriented Policing (POP) as a transitional approach that can strengthen community-police relations. This conclusion has been further confirmed by a series of interviews completed with chief police officers in both countries.