The IPA Logo – A Symbol of Unity and Friendship
The logo of the International Police Association has been the visual heart of our identity since the organisation’s founding in 1950. First hand-drawn by IPA founder Arthur Troop, it quickly became a recognised emblem among members worldwide. However, it was not until the first World Congress in Paris, 1955 that the design was formally adopted as the official symbol of the IPA—after spirited debate that made it one of the most discussed items on the agenda.
Arthur Troop designed the logo with great care, ensuring that every detail reflected the values and mission of the IPA as a global friendship organisation. The central globe represents the worldwide reach of the association and the unity of police officers across all nations. Behind it, the eight-pointed star echoes the shape used in many UK police helmet badges, symbolising our roots in policing traditions. Flanking the design, laurel branches signify honour and achievement, while the base scroll proudly bears our motto.
The wording of the motto was also a topic of lively discussion in 1955. Seeking precision and universality, Arthur Troop consulted IPA member and Esperanto expert Bob Hamilton, who provided the enduring translation:
“Servo per Amikeco” – Service Through Friendship.
Arthur Troop chose Esperanto for the IPA motto because it is a neutral, easy-to-learn, and non-political language that symbolises unity across nations. Its use reflected his vision of fostering friendship and cooperation among police officers worldwide, without favouring any one country or culture.
To this day, the IPA logo remains a timeless emblem of our commitment to fostering friendship, cooperation, and understanding among police officers worldwide.
IPA Hymn
The IPA Hymn, Servir par l’Amitié (“Service through Friendship”), has served as the official anthem of the International Police Association since 1966. Composed by members of IPA France, the lyrics were penned in French by Pierre-Marie Guillemot, while the music was composed by Alfred Couat.
The hymn was first performed during the 8th International Executive Council meeting held in Toronto, Canada, in 1966. This inaugural performance featured orchestration by the Band of the French National Police, conducted by Deputy Principal Officer Pierre Bigot.
Since that time, the IPA Hymn has symbolized the association’s core values of friendship, unity, and dedicated service across the globe.
IPA Song
Introduced at the IPA World Congress 2025 in Kraków, Poland, the new IPA Song beautifully captures the spirit and values of the International Police Association. While it does not replace the official IPA Hymn, it serves as a heartfelt musical expression of the friendship, unity, and shared purpose that define the IPA worldwide.