Summary of Changing the Guard

Bayley. This document focuses on the need for policing in developing societies to be both effective in reducing crime and democratic in its practices. Policing in developing societies faces significant challenges due to political contexts and a lack of operational lessons from existing efforts. A democratic police force must be accountable to the law, protect human rights, and prioritize individual citizens and private groups. Despite the 1974 Foreign Assistance Act prohibiting American involvement in foreign internal security, efforts in police programming have been pervasive, with multiple departments and agencies involved in 150 countries, spending $630 million in 2004. Police reform strategies include providing a legal basis for the force, creating independent oversight, staffing with qualified personnel, and developing executive capacity to manage reform. The security challenge of reducing crime and violence creates a dilemma in developing societies, but safety is a human right that can be reconciled with democratic processes and stopping crime. Building capacity in police forces to manage by results, prioritize individual and local needs, and protect human rights is crucial for building viable police forces. Managing police assistance requires a comprehensive plan, adapting to local conditions, and treating aid recipients as equal partners. Evaluations of police aid programs are few and often inadequate, but some suggest improving performance in countries such as Bosnia-Herzegovina and South Africa. Bailey recommends coherent plans that reconcile effective law enforcement and democratic practices, listening to local populations' needs, and using evidence-based management that fits local circumstances. Organizational recommendations include streamlining the process by giving the Justice Department exclusive responsibility and increasing its resources and strategies.