The European Council of Police Unions (CESP) took an active role at the 29th European Police Congress, held on 6–7 May 2026 at CityCube Berlin, reaffirming its position as a key stakeholder in shaping the future of policing and internal security across Europe.

As the largest internal security conference in the European Union, the European Police Congress once again brought together approximately 1,500 high-level participants from more than 20 countries, including political leaders, senior police officials, security authorities, intelligence services, and industry representatives. The Congress serves as a unique international platform for executive-level dialogue, where critical discussions on current security challenges and future policing solutions are addressed at the highest level.

CESP was represented by its President Massimo Denarier, General Secretary Cosmin Andreica, Advisor Irena Ivanovska, alongside Deputy General Secretaries: Roma Katiniene (LPPS) and Zoran Kuzmanoski (MPS). Their presence ensured that the voice of police professionals and unions was strongly represented in discussions that shape European security policy.

The Congress opened with keynote addresses from Hans-Georg Engelke, State Secretary, Ministry of Interior, Germany and Nicola Molteni, State Secretary, Ministry of Interior, Italy, who underlined the importance of strengthening cooperation across Europe in response to evolving security threats. Central themes of this year’s edition included balancing protection and law enforcement, as well as advancing future policing solutions in an increasingly complex security environment. Across more than thirty specialist forums and a comprehensive exhibition of cutting-edge technologies, participants explored innovations and strategies designed to enhance operational effectiveness and resilience.

A key highlight of CESP’s participation was its series of high-level bilateral meetings, which reinforced its growing influence and engagement at the European level. In a constructive and forward-looking meeting with Nicola Molteni, discussions focused on pressing police and security issues, including the protection of democratic values, public safety, and the need to improve working conditions for law enforcement personnel. Mr. Molteni expressed strong support for the role of police unions and demonstrated a clear understanding of the challenges faced by officers on the ground. CESP welcomed his openness to dialogue and reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening this cooperation in the future.

Equally important was the meeting with Lena Düpont, Member of the European Parliament, where discussions centred on advancing the recognition of policing as a high-risk profession and enhancing protections for officers across Europe. The exchange also addressed upcoming initiatives, including a conference at the Lithuanian Parliament dedicated to tackling violence against police officers. This dialogue further highlighted the importance of sustained engagement between European institutions and representative police organisations such as CESP.

CESP’s presence at the European Police Congress 2026 once again demonstrated the organisation’s strategic role in connecting police professionals with policymakers and key stakeholders. In an environment where security challenges are increasingly complex and cross-border in nature, such platforms are essential for ensuring that the perspectives and needs of law enforcement personnel are effectively represented at the decision-making level.

By actively participating in high-level discussions and engaging directly with political and institutional partners, CESP continues to strengthen its position as a leading voice for police professionals in Europe. The organisation remains committed to fostering cooperation, promoting the rights and recognition of law enforcement officers, and contributing to the development of effective and sustainable security policies across the continent.

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