Policing and Human Rights

Module code: CR3033

The political independence of the police service in Britain has acquired a protected and sacred status, but this independence has to be carefully balanced with the role of the police in maintenance of law and order. This module approaches human rights beyond a legalistic framework to include politics, citizenship, ethics, freedoms and equalities. Drawing on examples of policing practice such as the public order policing, the police use of force and police surveillance, we will critically explore the complex relationship between the police, politics, ethics and human rights. Using a comparative approach drawing on global policing practices, the tensions and contradictions in maintaining the apolitical status of the police is considered. Throughout this module, you will think critically about how policing practices support and contravene human rights of citizens, and how policing challenges, reflects and reproduces social inequalities and divisions.