Women Police Global Update #2

Women police officers continue to make tremendous contributions to police work worldwide and to our global community.


In India, for instance, a recent interview with Dr. Kiran Bedi (above left) reveals how this remarkable woman -- India's first and highest ranking woman police officer -- continues to be a force for change. A long-time social activist, Dr. Bedi is the founder of two NGO’s in India: Navjyoti for welfare and preventive policing and India Vision Foundation for prison reforms, drug abuse prevention and child welfare. Read the fascinating interview here.


In the United Kingdom, the London Metropolitan Police used a new strategy at the recent International Climate Camp conference: put women officers in charge of the operation. Read about the reasoning behind this decision in The Guardian.


In South East Europe, the International Association of Women Police (IAWP) is supporting the creation of a South East European Police Women’s Network. Chief Insp Jane Townsley, president of the IAWP, recently attended an international conference in Belgrade where she declared:

“Women police officers bring unique and invaluable skills to criminal justice agencies around the world and I am delighted to have this opportunity to assist in the creation of a new policewomen’s network.... There is an obvious need within this region for a women’s network and the passion and commitment demonstrated to me by those attending the meeting should be embraced and supported.” Read more....

And in the United States,

the New York City Police Department (NPYD) recently honored the city’s first Asian-American policewoman, Agnes Chan. The 30-year veteran received the Lifetime Achievement Award, according to Asian Week. More....