Urban Security in Europe: Problems, responsibilities and expertise

The increased freedom of movement of people, goods, and services across national borders, an austere economic climate, and consequent pressures on governing capacity in European cities have led to the development of crime prevention policy in Europe. This book examines the concept of 'urban security in a European context, tracing the origins of the problem in public policy discourse to the desire of the European Union to create an 'area of freedom, security, and justice amongst member states.' It argues that the social science has a significant contribution to make to this policy discourse in corroborating, criticizing, and adapting its conception of the problems, responsibilities, and expertise entailed in urban security and constituting its smarter governance in an age of austerity.

Format: Hardback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 01 January 2021
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The current state of urban security in Europe is a complex and multifaceted issue that is influenced by a range of factors, including the increased freedom of movement of people, goods, and services across national borders, an increasingly austere economic climate, and consequent pressures on governing capacity in European cities. In this context, crime prevention policy has been developed in Europe as a response to the perceived rise of transnational threats to the security of urban populations.

The concept of 'urban security in a European context' is examined in this book, tracing the origins of the problem in public policy discourse through to the desire of the European Union to create an 'area of freedom, security, and justice amongst member states.' Written by experts in the field and based on extensive research across Europe, this book argues that the social science has a major contribution to make to this policy discourse in corroborating, criticising, and adapting its conception of the problems, responsibilities, and expertise entailed in urban security and constituting its smarter governance in an age of austerity.

One of the key challenges facing urban security in Europe is the increasing complexity of the threats that cities face. These threats include terrorism, organized crime, cybercrime, and public health emergencies, among others. In response to these threats, cities have implemented a range of measures, including increased police presence, surveillance systems, and border control measures. However, the effectiveness of these measures has been questioned, and there is a need for more innovative and sustainable approaches to urban security.

Another challenge facing urban security in Europe is the growing inequality between different urban populations. This inequality can lead to social tensions and conflicts, which can in turn undermine urban security. For example, marginalized communities may be more vulnerable to crime and social exclusion, which can create a cycle of poverty and insecurity. In response to this challenge, cities have implemented policies aimed at promoting social inclusion and reducing inequality, such as social housing programs, education and training opportunities, and job creation initiatives.

The role of the European Union in urban security is also significant. The EU has developed a range of policies and initiatives aimed at promoting urban security, including the European Neighbourhood Policy, the European Police Cooperation Programme, and the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights. However, there are concerns about the effectiveness of these policies and the level of coordination between different EU agencies and member states.

In conclusion, the current state of urban security in Europe is a complex and multifaceted issue that requires a comprehensive and sustainable approach. While cities have implemented a range of measures to address the threats that they face, there is still a need for more innovative and sustainable approaches to urban security, as well as a greater level of coordination between different EU agencies and member states. The social science has a major contribution to make to this policy discourse in corroborating, criticising, and adapting its conception of the problems, responsibilities, and expertise entailed in urban security and constituting its smarter governance in an age of austerity.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781138799738