Within the framework of the 12th Congress of the European Council of Police Unions (CESP), a High-Level Round Table titled “Redefining Policing in Europe: Trends, Challenges and the Role of Law Enforcement Authorities”took place on October 1, 2025 in Bucharest, Romania. The event gathered distinguished speakers and institutional representatives to discuss the future of policing in a rapidly changing European and global landscape.

The Round Table featured interventions from:

• Ricardo Valadas, President, European Council of Police Unions (CESP)
• Irakli Beridze, Director, United Nations Interregional Crime and Justice Research Institute (UNICRI), Centre for AI and Robotics
• Guillermo Galarza, Vice President, International Centre for Missing and Exploited Children (ICMEC)
• Tanja Rakušić-Hadžić, Head of Division, Council of Europe – Directorate General of Human Rights and Rule of Law, Cooperation in Policing and Deprivation of Liberty
• Florin Marin, Vice President, European Economic and Social Committee (EESC)
• Cosmin Andreica, President, Sindicatul EUROPOL, Romania
• Representatives from Romanian National Authorities:
  • Ciprian Vacaru, Advisor to the Minister of Labour
  • Dimitru Costin, President of the National Trade Union Bloc Confederation (BNS)
  • Representatives from the Ministry of Interior of Romania

The discussions addressed major trends and challenges in modern law enforcement, exploring the impact of rapid technological change, the increasing complexity of transnational crime, and the evolving expectations of democratic societies. Participants underlined that law enforcement institutions play a central role in ensuring a safe and secure environment for citizens, serving as crucial guarantors of social order and public trust.

A particular focus was placed on the importance of artificial intelligence in policing, with experts highlighting how AI tools can enhance efficiency, prevention, and investigative capabilities. It also emphasized the need for responsible and ethical integration of AI technologies, ensuring they serve both security objectives and fundamental human rights.

In the context of growing online threats, online child protection emerged as a critical area of international concern, underscoring the need for stronger cooperation among law enforcement bodies, policymakers, and civil society to counter online child sexual exploitation and safeguard children across digital platforms.

Speakers also reaffirmed the vital importance of social dialogue, solidarity, and partnership among European and international institutions in addressing cross-border challenges and developing new policies that strengthen both operational effectiveness and social legitimacy of policing. Inter-institutional cooperation—among police unions, international organizations, and European institutions—was recognized as an indispensable element for adapting policing strategies to contemporary societal needs.

As noted by several participants, the ongoing transformation of policing requires balancing innovation with accountability, and technology with humanity. The Round Table concluded that the future of policing in Europe lies in collaboration, shared values, and a common vision of a just, safe, and resilient society—where police officers are fully supported, respected, and empowered to serve the public good.