On Patrol Events
Experience Policing Across Borders
On Patrol events are a unique and immersive initiative of the International Police Association, designed to bring together police officers from different countries for a hands-on exchange of professional practices, techniques, and experiences. These events offer IPA members the chance to join their colleagues on duty abroad, observe different policing environments, and build meaningful international friendships.
What Are On Patrol Events?
At their core, On Patrol events are exchange programmes where IPA members are invited to spend time with active police units in a host country. Participants are welcomed into the daily routine of their international colleagues — from station briefings to real-time operations — gaining firsthand insights into different policing styles, procedures, and challenges.
These experiences go far beyond classroom learning. Participants:
- Ride along with patrol units
- Observe live operations and emergency responses
- Visit specialized departments (e.g., mounted units, SWAT, air support)
- Take part in training demonstrations
- Learn about technological innovations in policing
- Connect with local and regional law enforcement leaders
A Real Example: Low Lands on Patrol
One of the most successful examples of this initiative is Low Lands on Patrol, jointly hosted by the Limburg-Noord district (Netherlands) and IPA Province of Antwerp (Belgium).
In its third edition in April 2024, the event welcomed IPA members from countries including Spain, England, Ireland, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Estonia, Iceland, Scotland, Poland, Germany, France, Greece, Denmark, the United States, and Norway.
Participants enjoyed a rich programme that included:
- Visits to the mounted police, police helicopter units, and the Royal Netherlands Air Force
- Observations at the Royal Military Police and police training centre
- A two-day visit to Antwerp’s new police headquarters, including a VR demonstration and live SWAT display
- A ride-along shift with Dutch police, experiencing real incidents ranging from high-speed pursuits to football match deployments
Beyond the professional aspect, participants formed strong bonds and created lasting friendships — a perfect reflection of the IPA’s core value of Servo per Amikeco (Service through Friendship).
On patrol over the years:
Munster on Patrol 2022 Germany
Iceland on patrol 2023 Iceland
Lowlands on Patrol 2024 Netherlands
Why Participate?
On Patrol events:
- Strengthen international policing cooperation
- Encourage professional development through real-world observation
- Promote cultural understanding and respect between officers
- Provide a platform to share best practices and new ideas
- Foster lifelong IPA connections
These events are cost-effective, practical, and deeply impactful for both hosts and guests. Many participants leave inspired and more engaged in IPA life — and some even join the association after their experience.
Get Involved
Would your section like to host an On Patrol event or are you interested in participating?
Contact your IPA National Section to learn more about upcoming opportunities or to discuss how to organise your own event.
Be part of the experience. Learn. Share. Connect.
On Patrol — policing beyond borders.