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Beyond Policing. A handbook for community-led solutions to the violence of policing in Western Europe
Police violence is not a new phenomenon. Protest in reaction to that violence is, similarly, nothing new. The 2020 uprisings, when millions around the world rose up against the violence of policing, were only the most recent manifestation of resistance. Unsurprisingly, responses to the police killing of George Floyd varied: as mainstream media selectively foregrounded “friendlier” versions of policing in Europe, some activists tore at the roots of institutional racism in the European Union. Still, criticisms alone do not decrease police violence.
In Europe today, more people than ever are asking: what actually makes communities safe? Beyond Policing offers a brief glimpse into some of the groups actively attempting to answer that question by exploring the demand from social movements to “defund the police”. At its heart, this demand is not merely about divesting from policing, but also investing in community-led solutions that empower people to take care of themselves and each other. Unpacking the vision and components of the demand, this handbook offers practicable ways of being together that address safety in people’s day-to-day lives.
Through stories, frameworks and templates for discussion, the handbook aims to reach a broad audience, from the newly-committed novice moved to action during the summer of 2020 and eager to take the next steps, to the seasoned organiser looking for inspiration abroad. Beyond Policing is for all those who understand that, fundamentally, creating meaningful safety is integral to a good life and a just society.
In Europe today, more people than ever are asking: what actually makes communities safe? Beyond Policing offers a brief glimpse into some of the groups actively attempting to answer that question by exploring the demand from social movements to “defund the police”. At its heart, this demand is not merely about divesting from policing, but also investing in community-led solutions that empower people to take care of themselves and each other. Unpacking the vision and components of the demand, this handbook offers practicable ways of being together that address safety in people’s day-to-day lives.
Through stories, frameworks and templates for discussion, the handbook aims to reach a broad audience, from the newly-committed novice moved to action during the summer of 2020 and eager to take the next steps, to the seasoned organiser looking for inspiration abroad. Beyond Policing is for all those who understand that, fundamentally, creating meaningful safety is integral to a good life and a just society.
144 pages, Paperback
Published January 1, 2020
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Displaying 1 - 3 of 3 reviews
January 31, 2023
PIC abolition is not about having the most correct messaging or models. Rather, it is about a willingness to take community safety so seriously that you dare to imagine that world publicly.
To be honest, I was a bit disappointed by this. It didn't really spark anything for me. I think it is a combination of writing style and already having quite some background knowledge. It did not provide me with the depth I was looking for. However, I think beginner's books are very important, just not what I needed. I do also think some core concepts could have used a bit more explanation (like transformative justice) and others a bit less - it was very repetitive. I did like the story at the beginning and the end and the more practical pieces of the book. I'm sure other people could really enjoy this.
To be honest, I was a bit disappointed by this. It didn't really spark anything for me. I think it is a combination of writing style and already having quite some background knowledge. It did not provide me with the depth I was looking for. However, I think beginner's books are very important, just not what I needed. I do also think some core concepts could have used a bit more explanation (like transformative justice) and others a bit less - it was very repetitive. I did like the story at the beginning and the end and the more practical pieces of the book. I'm sure other people could really enjoy this.
September 15, 2023
"Reformism is the political leaning rooted in neoliberalism"
"Optimising the system (...) will simply increase the system's ability to inflict harm (...)"
The authors are upfront against any constructive change. Any measure that would increase the scrutiny of police officers, create a closer bond and understanding between police and communities (community policing for example) or deconstruct the prejudice of police officers (through anti racist training) are considered "neo-liberal" or "reformist" and therefore evil.
The only viable solution is to abolish police and jump into community solutions and transformative justice. Alas, the book never attempts to describe what this would mean in practice. Destroy first, and then we will figure something out.
Policing has serious accountability issues but the positive change will never come from the side of the political spectrum that dismisses gradual and evidence-based approaches and the rule of law altogether.
"Optimising the system (...) will simply increase the system's ability to inflict harm (...)"
The authors are upfront against any constructive change. Any measure that would increase the scrutiny of police officers, create a closer bond and understanding between police and communities (community policing for example) or deconstruct the prejudice of police officers (through anti racist training) are considered "neo-liberal" or "reformist" and therefore evil.
The only viable solution is to abolish police and jump into community solutions and transformative justice. Alas, the book never attempts to describe what this would mean in practice. Destroy first, and then we will figure something out.
Policing has serious accountability issues but the positive change will never come from the side of the political spectrum that dismisses gradual and evidence-based approaches and the rule of law altogether.
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November 22, 2022No rating as it’s a Handbook and although I rate non fiction work often, this was different. It was so factual and a real handbook for change and knowledge development that I don’t feel like I can rate it! It was excellently written and very engaging.
Displaying 1 - 3 of 3 reviews