Policing for impact: Is South Africa ready for evidence-based policing?

Abstract

For decades, the prospect that research can improve the impact of policing operations and foster internal organisational efficiencies has been a source of promise and frustration. It may seem obvious to many that research should be able to assist with better policing strategies and tactics by providing evidence as to what does or does not work. Realising this potential, however, is not straightforward. This article reflects on evidence-based policing (EBP) and its challenges, as discussed at a workshop between the South African Police Service’s first ever National Research Division, the Institute for Security Studies, and academic and policing organisations based in the United Kingdom.