Policing Race, Ethnicity and Culture: Ethnographic Perspectives Across Europe

The edited collected explores how police officers and migrantized actors deal with perceived differences in European countries, taking a comparative approach to develop a European perspective.

Format: Hardback
Length: 352 pages
Publication date: 28 March 2023
Publisher: Manchester University Press

Dealing with cultural, ethnic, and racial differences has become a crucial aspect of policing in contemporary societies. This edited collection delves into the everyday, often mundane interactions between police officers and migrantized individuals in European countries, exploring how both parties navigate and manage perceived disparities. The contributions highlight that these differences are not merely external but are actively constructed and reproduced during police-citizen encounters. By adopting a comparative approach, the book offers a distinct European perspective on these issues.

The book comprises 12 ethnographies, drawn from ten European countries, based on extensive empirical research that employs innovative methodologies. Additionally, it includes two theoretical contributions that provide insightful frameworks for understanding these dynamics. The introduction provides a comprehensive overview of the topic, while the postface offers reflections on the findings and their implications.

The ethnographies in the collection offer a rich tapestry of experiences and perspectives, shedding light on the complexities and nuances of police-migrant interactions. They explore various themes, including the role of language barriers, cultural norms, stereotypes, and power dynamics in shaping these interactions. The authors examine how police officers and migrantized individuals perceive and interpret each other's actions, beliefs, and behaviors, leading to misunderstandings, tensions, and conflicts.

One of the key findings of the book is that cultural, ethnic, and racial differences are not static but are constantly evolving and shaped by a range of social, economic, and political factors. The authors argue that these differences should be seen as part of the broader social fabric rather than as obstacles to be overcome or managed. They suggest that police officers and migrantized individuals can work together to build trust, promote understanding, and address issues of discrimination and prejudice.

The book also highlights the importance of diversity and inclusivity in the police force. It emphasizes the need for police officers to be trained and equipped to work effectively with individuals from different cultural backgrounds, ethnicities, and races. This includes developing cultural competence, empathy, and sensitivity to the experiences of marginalized communities.

Furthermore, the book raises important questions about the role of the state and policymakers in addressing cultural, ethnic, and racial differences in policing. It suggests that policies and practices should be designed to promote equity, fairness, and respect for all individuals, regardless of their background. This includes implementing anti-discrimination laws, promoting diversity in the hiring process, and providing support and training for police officers to work effectively with migrantized communities.

In conclusion, this edited collection provides a valuable contribution to the literature on policing and cultural, ethnic, and racial differences. It offers a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the dynamics between police officers and migrantized individuals in European countries. By adopting a comparative approach, the book provides a rich source of insights and recommendations for policymakers, police officers, and researchers interested in improving the relationship between law enforcement and marginalized communities.

Weight: 684g
Dimension: 162 x 242 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781526165589