Russian Police Transition to Democracy: Revising the Russian Police Attitude Toward the Rule of Law
Abstract
Russia has experienced rapid growth in domestic and organized crime since the collapse of communism. The approach Russia's government uses to control this increase will be a test of its democratic foundations. Democratic police methods are necessary as the nation overcomes more than seventy years of Communist police terror and moves toward the rule of law. This thesis shows that the Russian police forces' transition to democratic police operations is strained. This transition requires introducing and teaching new concepts that include respect for human rights, dignity, integrity, accountability and professional competence. The rule of law in police operations requires an unbiased application of the laws of the state. The Russian police forces' goal to be trained in accordance with international standards and to be free of corruption requires a new focus. Russian police must shift from the role of protection of state interests over those of individuals, to a role centered on protecting and serving the citizens. Improved training for police forces and higher legal standards will solidify the fundamental principles of professional police conduct and a civic motivation for public safety.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 1997
- Accession Number
- ADA343450
Entities
People
- Renea S. Curfman
Organizations
- Naval Postgraduate School