ABSTRACT:
In March 2024, the World Federation of Public Health Associations (WFPHA) and the Global Law enforcement and public health (GLEPHA) presented a joint statement about the need for collaboration between law enforcement agencies, and public health services.1 Increased political commitment is needed by all governments to better integrate policing and public health. Public health and social care professionals need to be positioned as direct responders in collaboration with or in place of police where appropriate. More funding is needed for research on the integration of policing and public health systems. Multilateral agencies, including WHO, UNODC, UNDP and UN Women, should develop clear guidance and support government departments to implement effective policing and public health strategies. Public health associations and police associations should advocate for the adoption of laws, policies and procedures that facilitate a public health approach to policing. Joint skills training and education for public health and police workforces is needed to improve the effectiveness of joint responses. There are examples of creative multidisciplinary partnerships between law enforcement and public health agencies. 2. However, geopolitical changes, austerity and the rise of populism have left public authorities under-funded to work collaboratively, to innovate, and to implement evidence-based interventions. Draconian policies still punish drug users; Populist politicians promote intolerance and performative cruelty against vulnerable minorities. Neoliberal policies create populations of poor people in precarious employment whose livelihoods constantly put them at risk of offending3. The presentation will review the evidence base for law enforcement interventions which reduce crime, promote community safety and improve health. It will discuss the adverse health impacts of the criminalisation of homelessness and poverty. The need for collaboration between police and public health will be discussed why this has not been delivered due to current failures of global policies.