While the concept of Community Policing has been implemented by governments to make policing more responsive to communities, including in Mozambique, Community Engagement is a distinct but complementary approach promoting local populations’ active contributions to their security, for example by providing information. IOM will promote the transition from an incident-based reaction to crime to a more proactive approach that aims to fulfil, respect and promote human rights. This approach will contribute to ensuring security and justice (which are pivotal to development), reducing forced displacement and addressing irregular migration challenges. In addition, recognizing that policing actions must be tailored to the needs and interest of local communities, community engagement and policing will play a key role in Mozambique to establish the foundations for longer-term recovery, including through livelihood restoration, access to services and peaceful coexistence.

Objective

Cooperation and trust between communities and law enforcement is increased through outreach, enhanced information sharing and joint problem solving.

Key Results
  • Community safety councils (CSCs) are established and strengthened as a critical link between communities and law enforcement.
  • Communities can identify security-related issues and determine solutions through dialogues facilitated by civil society organizations.
  • Community policing and civic engagement mobile brigades conduct community outreach activities.
  • Engagement between communities and the police is strengthened through community-based activities and investments in infrastructure that promote positive engagement.
  • The capacities of active-duty police and the Government to interact more positively in communities is strengthened through training and mentoring programmes.