IPA CONNECT NOVEMBER 2026

IPA CONNECT NOVEMBER 2026 — Page 1

International November 2026

Police

Association

IPAC NNECT

69th IPA World Congress

The 69th IPA World Congress took place from 20–25 October 2026 in Colombo, Sri Lanka, bringing together delegates

from across the IPA family to share ideas, discuss key developments and collectively shape the future of our Association.

It was a memorable Congress, with important decisions made together by the International Executive Board and

National Sections, alongside presentations, celebrations and recognition of the achievements of our members. The

results of our international competitions were announced, and the recipients of the Arthur Troop Scholarship were also

recognised. See the results on page 6 and 7.

Look out for our full Congress report in next month’s IPA Connect.

IPA Hosting Sections Meeting, Lisbon, Portugal

The Hosting Sections’ Meeting (HSM) took place in Lisbon from 4–7 September 2026, bringing together IPA representatives

from around the world to exchange ideas and discuss the development of hosting opportunities and IPA Houses. Read

more about HSM Lisbon 2026 on page 28.

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IPA CONNECT NOVEMBER 2026 — Page 2

IPAC NNECT

Index Page

Foreword

Foreword: Treasurer Social Affairs

04 Jean-Pierre Allet

International Projects

Professional Commission

Arthur Troop Scholarship (ATS)

06 Arthur Troop Scholarship 2027

Awardees Announced

Education

08 ASP Instructor Certification at IBZ

Gimborn

International News & Highlights

69th IPA World Congress 2026

12

Colombo, Sri Lanka

#SHEisIPA

14 IPA Women on a Hiking Trip

Young Members

18 Turning Ideas into Opportunities

Socio-Cultural Commission

Arts & Culture

19

Results of the IPA Photo

Competition 2026

Arts & Culture

21 Results of the IPA Children’s

Drawing Competition 2026

WWW.IPA-INTERNATIONAL.ORG

01/11

NOVEMER

2026

Arts & Culture

24 Results of the IPA Literary

Competition 2026

Green IPA

26 The friendship tree planted in

front of the IPA house in Lisbon

Sports

27 The Countdown Is On for the 2nd

IPA World Football Tournament!

Travel

28 Lisbon Hosted The Hosting Sections’

Meeting 2026

PolicemenU

34

Finland: Pannbiffar

International Relations Commission

International Relations

Commission

35

Airpol & Signing of the MoU

Marketing

IPA Marketing

IPA Marketing Video Competition

36

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IPA CONNECT NOVEMBER 2026 — Page 3

IPA CONNECT

Index Page

Section Updates

Austria

38 Blue Walks – Pink Cause" campaign

Belgium

COPS 2.0: Service Through Friendship

39

in the Fight Against Drug-Related

Crime

Bosnia & Herzegovina

43 9th IPA Motorcycle Meeting –

Sarajevo 2026

Botswana

44 Donation of 15 Pairs of School Shoes

to Makolojane Primary School

Israel

45 IPA Israel Tribute Evening

Israel

The secrets behind recruiting new

47

members to the IPA

Kenya

IPA Section Kenya Goes Green: 1,000

50

Mangrove Seedlings Planted on the

Coast

Lithuania

Four Officers, Two Countries, One IPA

52

Family

New Zealand

55 IPA New Zealand Launches Virtual

Run Club

Portugal

56 MineTEx 2026

WWW.IPA-INTERNATIONAL.ORG

01/11

NOVEMBER

2026

Romania

57 Sibiu becomes the capital of

women’s solidarity in policing

Spain

59 Between Shadows and Olive

Green

Spain

62 Umedula Badajoz 2026

Sri Lanka

64 IPA Sri Lanka Marks World

Children’s Day

United Kingdom

66 Los Angeles and the IPA

United Kingdom

68 International Crisis Negotiation at

Gimborn 2026

United Kingdom

70 National Clay Shooting

Competition

Upcoming Events

Upcoming Events

72

Register Today

Gimborn Seminars

Gimborn Seminars

74 View 2027 Seminar Programme

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IPA CONNECT NOVEMBER 2026 — Page 4

FOREWORD

A CONGRESS TO

REMEMBER

DECISIONS, FRIENDSHIP AND OUR

SHARED RESPONSIBILITY

Dear IPA friends, dear IPA family

Looking back on the 69th IPA World

Congress in Sri Lanka, I feel grateful

to have been part of such a

remarkable gathering. It was the

first time that our World Congress

had been held in Asia - a milestone

that gave this meeting a special

place in the history of our

Association.

As a member of the International

Executive Board and in my role as

Treasurer Social Affairs, I

experienced the Congress from a

particular perspective. Our

discussions and decisions shape the

future of the IPA, while the Sound financial stewardship, clear priorities and

relationships we build give meaning responsible use of our resources are essential if

to the work behind them. Both are we are to support our members, our sections

essential to a strong international and

association. perspective

responsibility

The Congress addressed important about ensuring that our resources serve people,

questions about our organisation

strengthen

and its future. Some decisions

remain

prompted strong discussion and

generations.

reflected the responsibility

delegates carry when making

Yet the World Congress was much more than a

choices that affect our international

series of meetings and votes. In conversations

community. Whatever our

over a meal, during formal events and in those

individual views, the Congress

unplanned

reminded us that decisions must be

colleagues from different countries discovered

considered carefully, debated

openly and taken in the interests of how

the Association as a whole. experiences,

renewed

Our work also involved the practical languages and cultures. Sri Lanka’s warmth and

responsibilities that keep the IPA hospitality

moving forward. memorable.

IPA Connect November 2026

IPA Connect , November 2026

our international activities. From my

as Treasurer Social Affairs, this

is not only about figures. It is

connections and help the IPA

active and welcoming for future

moments between sessions,

much they share. We exchanged

listened to one another and

friendships that cross borders,

made those encounters especially

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IPA CONNECT NOVEMBER 2026 — Page 5

FOREWORD

A CONGRESS TO

REMEMBER CONT’

That is the spirit captured in the words of

Helen Keller: “Alone we can do so little;

together we can do so much.” They speak

directly to the IPA. Our strength does not

come from one country, one committee or

one individual. It comes from members

who are willing to contribute, sections that

support one another and colleagues who

continue to meet each other with respect

and friendship.

I would like to express my sincere thanks to

the Sri Lanka Section, its leadership, the

organising team and everyone who worked

behind the scenes to make the Congress

such a success. Their dedication and

welcome gave us the opportunity not only

to conduct our business, but also to

experience the culture and generosity of Sri

Lanka.

IPA Connect November 2026

IPA Connect , November 2026

As we return to our sections and

daily responsibilities, let us carry the

decisions made in Colombo forward

with care and the friendships

formed there with gratitude. May

we continue to serve our

Association and one another in the

true spirit of

Servo per Amikeco — Service

Through Friendship.

With warm IPA greetings,

Jean-Pierre Allet

Member of the International

Executive Board

Treasurer Social Affairs

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IPA CONNECT NOVEMBER 2026 — Page 6

Applications for the Arthur Troop

Scholarship 2027 closed on 31 March,

after which all eligible applications were

independently reviewed and scored.

Following this assessment process, the

successful awardees were announced

at this year’s IPA World Congress, held in

Colombo, Sri Lanka, from 20–25

October.

We are delighted to announce the

successful recipients of the Arthur Troop

Scholarship 2027, who will each have

the opportunity to attend a course of

their choice to support their

professional development and broaden

their knowledge and experience.

The Arthur Troop Scholarship is an

important initiative of the International

Police Association, providing financial

support to IPA members who wish to

undertake professional development

opportunities. Successful applicants

can receive up to €2,500 per individual,

which can contribute towards the costs

of attending a suitable course, including

course fees, travel and

accommodation.

The scholarship is designed to help IPA

members access learning and

development opportunities that may

otherwise be difficult to undertake,

supporting members in expanding their

IPA Connect November 2026

Arthur Troop Scholarship

2027 Awardees

Announced

professional skills, gaining new

knowledge and bringing their

experiences back to their colleagues

and wider IPA community.

Each year, applications are assessed

independently following the closing

date, ensuring that all submissions are

considered fairly and consistently. The

successful awardees are then

announced at the annual IPA World

Congress.

We would like to congratulate all of the

Arthur Troop Scholarship 2027 awardees

and wish them every success as they

undertake their chosen courses. We look

forward to hearing about their

experiences and the knowledge they

gain through these opportunities.

Applications for 2028 are now open

Interested in applying for the Arthur

Troop Scholarship 2028? Now is the time

to start planning your application.

Applications for the 2028 scholarship will

close on 31 March 2027, so members are

encouraged to consider the professional

development course they would like to

undertake and submit their application

before the deadline.

To find out more about the Arthur Troop

Scholarship and submit your

application, visit the IPA website:

https://tinyurl.com/ATS-Application

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IPA CONNECT NOVEMBER 2026 — Page 7

2027 Awardees

Asia Nimesh Ruwantha WANIGASOORIYA

Europe Charilaos VENETIS

Asia Muhammad Amin KHAN

Europe Ewa DEBOWSKA

Oceania Aimee EVANS

America James AGUIRRE

Europe Dario FIGLIOMENI

Asia Krishna JHUGROO

Europe Valentina PAVLOVA

America Henry ATAUCHI MASIAS

Africa Fortune MODISAKENG

Nimesh Ruwantha Wanigasooriya and Valentina Pavlova with Salvatore ATS lead

IPA Connect November 2026

Nimesh Ruwantha Wanigasooriya with Salvatore

ATS lead and IP Martin Hoffmann

Sri Lanka 2,500.00 €

Greece 2,400.00 €

Pakistan 1,200.00 €

Poland 2,500.00 €

New Zealand 2,500.00 €

Canada 2,100.00 €

Italy 2,000.00 €

Mauritius 2,500.00 €

Latvia 1,800.00 €

Peru 2,000.00 €

South Africa 2,500.00 €

24,000.00 €

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IPA CONNECT NOVEMBER 2026 — Page 8

Education

ASP Instructor Certification at

IBZ Gimborn: 50 Years of

Training, Innovation and

International Partnership

For law enforcement professionals,

quality equipment is only as effective as

the training behind it. That principle has

been at the heart of Armament Systems

and Procedures (ASP) since its founding

in 1976, and it is equally reflected in the

mission of the International Police

Association (IPA) and its international

education and training center, IBZ

Schloss Gimborn in Germany.

IPA Connect November 2026

In 2026, as ASP celebrates its 50th

anniversary, the long-standing

relationship between ASP, the IPA and

IBZ Gimborn continues to provide police

officers and trainers from around the

world with access to professional,

internationally recognized training.

One of the most significant examples of

this cooperation is the ASP Instructor

Certification (AIC) Course, a

demanding multi-day program

designed to develop qualified

instructors in the operational use of the

ASP Tactical Baton, Tactical Restraints

and Tactical Flashlights.

More Than a Product Course

The ASP Instructor Certification

program goes well beyond simply

learning how to operate equipment. It is

an instructor-development program

built around practical skills, sound

tactics and the ability to effectively

transfer those skills to other law

enforcement personnel.

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IPA CONNECT NOVEMBER 2026 — Page 9

Education

Participants receive intensive

instruction in the integrated use of ASP's

primary duty equipment. The program

combines classroom instruction with

extensive hands-on training, practical

exercises and scenario-based

applications.

Successful participants must

demonstrate competency in both

knowledge and physical performance,

as well as the ability to effectively teach

the material. ASP certification is

competency-based; attendance alone

does not guarantee certification. Those

who successfully complete the

program become ASP Certified

Instructors and are qualified to conduct

ASP Basic Certification (ABC) training

for officers.

The result is a course that challenges

participants not only as practitioners,

but also as instructors.

An Integrated Approach to Officer

Training

A major strength of the AIC program is

its integrated approach.

Rather than viewing the baton,

restraints and tactical flashlight as

unrelated pieces of equipment, ASP

training emphasizes how officers

transition between and employ these

tools during real-world encounters.

IPA Connect November 2026

Rather than viewing the baton, restraints

and tactical flashlight as unrelated

pieces of equipment, ASP training

emphasizes how officers transition

between and employ these tools during

real-world encounters.

The curriculum incorporates techniques

designed to be straightforward,

repeatable and retained under stress.

ASP describes its training philosophy as

emphasizing techniques that are

tactically sound, operationally practical

and legally defensible. The integrated

instructor program prepares trainers to

bring those concepts back to their own

agencies and colleagues.

The physical component is equally

important. The AIC is an intensive,

hands-on program requiring

participants to demonstrate techniques

rather than simply observe them. The

international ASP Instructor Certification

offered through the IPA at Gimborn

annually has also incorporated scenario

participation, reinforcing the application

of skills in realistic circumstances.

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IPA CONNECT NOVEMBER 2026 — Page 10

Education

50 Year Celebration of ASP

This year, 2026, takes on additional

significance as ASP celebrates 50 years

of service to the law enforcement

profession.

Founded in 1976 by Dr. Kevin Parsons, ASP

grew from its roots in police training and

use-of-force systems into an

internationally recognized manufacturer

and training organization. Today, ASP

equipment and training are used by law

enforcement professionals in more than

100 countries.

Training has remained a central part of

the company's identity. ASP launched its

formal training program in 1987 with a

tactical baton course. Restraint training

was subsequently incorporated,

followed by the development of an

integrated program combining batons,

restraints and tactical lighting.

IPA Connect November 2026

That commitment is substantial: ASP

reports providing approximately $2

million (USD) in law enforcement

training each year at no cost, reflecting

the company's philosophy that

professional equipment should be

supported by professional instruction.

For five decades, the connection

between equipment, training and officer

safety has remained fundamental to

ASP's mission: “Protecting Those Who

Protect.”

ASP, the IPA and IBZ Gimborn

ASP's relationship with the International

Police Association and IBZ Schloss

Gimborn has helped extend this training

philosophy to an international law

enforcement audience.

The first ASP Instructor Course at IBZ

Gimborn was held from 29 March

through 2 April 2016, with support from

the IPA’s Professional Commission. From

its beginning at Gimborn, the program

combined theoretical instruction,

demanding practical training and

internationally recognized ASP Instructor

Certification.

A decade later, that cooperation

continues.

IBZ Gimborn occupies a unique position

within the IPA's professional-

development efforts. Located at Schloss

Gimborn in Germany, the center brings

together police officers and law

enforcement professionals from

different countries to learn from subject-

matter experts while also exchanging

experiences, operational practices and

professional perspectives. The IPA

describes Gimborn as being at the core

of its international educational offering.

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IPA CONNECT NOVEMBER 2026 — Page 11

Education

That environment makes Gimborn

particularly well suited for the ASP

Instructor program. Participants do

not simply leave with new technical

skills; they build professional

relationships with fellow trainers and

officers from other nations through

the many networking opportunities

that all courses held at IBZ Gimborn

offer to course participants.

Training the Trainers

Perhaps the greatest value of the AIC

program is its multiplier effect.

Every participant who successfully

earns ASP Instructor Certification has

the potential to return home and

provide quality instruction to officers

within their own agency, region or

country. The knowledge developed

during several very intensive days at

Gimborn can therefore reach far

beyond the individuals attending the

course.

It represents precisely what

international police cooperation

should accomplish: bringing

professionals together, developing

practical skills, exchanging knowledge

and then carrying that knowledge

back to the officers and communities

they serve.

IPA Connect November 2026

As ASP celebrates its 50th anniversary,

its continuing partnership with the

International Police Association and IBZ

Gimborn demonstrates the value of

long-term cooperation between

industry, professional police

organizations and training institutions.

Technology and equipment will

continue to evolve. Police tactics and

training methodologies will continue to

develop. But one principle remains

constant: providing officers with

equipment is only the beginning.

Ensuring they have the knowledge, skills

and qualified instructors necessary to

use that equipment safely and

effectively is what turns equipment into

capability.

Through the ASP Instructor Certification

program at IBZ Gimborn, ASP, the

International Police Association and IBZ

Gimborn continue that mission together

—developing instructors, strengthening

international professional relationships

and investing in the safety and

professionalism of law enforcement

officers around the world.

Watch for more information coming out

soon on the 2027 IBZ Gimborn offerings,

and future ASP Instructor program both

at IBZ Gimborn, and in IPA member

countries under the “Gimborn on the

Road” program which helps bring

training programs to sections around

the globe that may not be able to send

members to Gimborn for a course.

Joe Johnson, IPA Professional

Commission - Education Team Leader,

and IPA US Section National President

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IPA CONNECT NOVEMBER 2026 — Page 12

th

69 IPA World

Congress 2026,

Colombo, Sri Lanka

The much-anticipated 69th IPA World

Congress took place in Colombo, Sri

Lanka, from 20–25 October 2026,

bringing together more than 250

delegates, observers and visitors from

around the world. United by friendship

and a shared commitment to Servo

per Amikeco – Service Through

Friendship, participants came together

to discuss the future of the International

Police Association and the continued

development of our global network.

IPA Connect November 2026

We extend our sincere thanks to IPA Sri

Lanka for their warm welcome and

excellent hospitality throughout the

Congress.

The week provided an opportunity for

important discussions and the exchange

of ideas, with outcomes that will help

shape the Association in the years ahead.

Numerous motions submitted by National

Sections and the International Executive

Board (IEB) were debated in detail,

addressing ways to improve the IPA’s

processes, governance and organisational

structure.

The programme began on Tuesday, 20

October, with welcome drinks for

delegates, providing an opportunity to

reconnect with friends and meet fellow

members from across the international

IPA family.

The official opening ceremony followed

on Wednesday, 21 October, before

delegates moved into the working

programme, which included regional

group meetings, the Treasury meeting

and the much-loved cultural event. This

special occasion invited Sections to

showcase aspects of their national

cultures and share traditional delicacies,

celebrating the diversity that makes the

IPA such a unique international

association.

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IPA CONNECT NOVEMBER 2026 — Page 13

Thursday and Friday were dedicated to

the main Congress working sessions,

featuring presentations from Sections

and delegates, alongside discussions

and decisions on the motions

presented. The week continued with the

gala dinner on Friday evening, followed

by a social day on Saturday, offering

delegates a chance to relax, strengthen

friendships and enjoy time together

beyond the formal proceedings.

Thank You Sri Lanka

IPA Connect November 2026

th

69 IPA World

Congress 2026,

Colombo, Sri Lanka

Delegates began their journeys home on

Sunday, 25 October, while some remained

in Sri Lanka to take part in Friendship Week

and continue building international

connections.

The World Congress once again

demonstrated the value of bringing our

international IPA family together to share

experiences, exchange ideas and

strengthen the friendships at the heart of

our Association.

Look out for more information in the

December edition of IPA Connect, where

we will share further highlights, key

outcomes and stories from the 69th IPA

World Congress in Sri Lanka.

International Administration Centre

(IAC)

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IPA CONNECT NOVEMBER 2026 — Page 14

IPA Women on a Hiking Trip

For the past three years, #SHEisIPA has

been a project under the International

Executive Board. The aim is to

encourage a women’s network within

IPA, make women more visible within IPA,

and encourage IPA women to take on

various roles and responsibilities within

the organisation – locally, regionally,

nationally or internationally. Several

educational seminars have been held at

the flagship IBZ Gimborn, and today

there are women from most sections

participating in the network.

Suzanne and Marie from IPA Ireland took

the initiative to invite women from these

seminars to #SHEisHiking, held from 17–

20 July in the south-eastern part of

Ireland, an area known as the “Garden

of Ireland” – County Wicklow.

Twelve IPA women from Japan, the

Netherlands, Norway, the United

Kingdom, Sweden and Germany

travelled by car, motorhome, ferry and

plane to meet 16 women from Ireland for

a long weekend in Newhaven. New

contacts were made and old friendships

strengthened.

ome of us met in Dublin for a little

sightseeing, while others travelled

directly to Bray, where we international

guests gathered. We dipped our feet in

IPA Connect November 2026

S the Irish Sea, followed by a late lunch.

In the evening, we enjoyed dinner and a

“get-together”, with plenty of chatting

and catching up – as always when we

meet face to face.

On day two, we boarded a bus with our

hiking boots, walking poles and

backpacks filled with packed lunches

and plenty of water. Temperatures

reached just over 28°C in the shade

under a clear blue sky – highly unusual

for Ireland, which normally greets

visitors with rain and wind regardless of

the season. We were met by IPA

Ireland’s Hiking Club – the women’s

branch. Sixteen experienced hikers were

now ready to guide us into the forest

and up the mountain to see the remains

of a vanished glacier. Plenty of

sunscreen was applied, and off we went

at a fairly brisk pace, despite several

participants being inexperienced hikers.

Our first stop was at Upper Lake,

Glendalough (Brockagh –

Sevenchurches)

where we enjoyed some shade and

coolness. This was followed by

approximately one kilometer through

dense spruce forest, after which we

were exposed to strong sunshine for

more than three hours, including our

lunch break

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IPA CONNECT NOVEMBER 2026 — Page 15

The first part of the hike followed a wide

gravel road, but as soon as the trail

began to climb, we encountered

,

boulders and loose stones that we had

to carefully balance across. There was a

steep climb of approximately two

kilometers up to 400 meters, where we

stopped for lunch. Water was rushing

nearby, and many hikers chose to cool

their feet – or even their entire bodies –

in the stream flowing down the

mountain.

The view was magical. We could see

Upper Lake and Lower Lake, as well as

large parts of the trail we had already

covered and the route still ahead of us.

We had not yet reached the highest

point of the hike.

Water and lunch were very welcome,

and with renewed energy we continued

along the still-rocky trail, which

eventually turned into narrow wooden

boardwalks across the wetlands. Still

uphill!

IPA Connect November 2026

We reached the summit and were now

more than 500 meters above sea level,

with views in every direction. A quick

hydration break and a few shoes

needed re-lacing, and then it was time

to descend on the other side of the lake.

The spectacular views ahead made it

difficult to maintain any great speed –

we wanted to see everything!

There were two more stops for water

and photographs before we gathered by

the lake to exchange gifts and give a

well-deserved cheer to the less

experienced hikers. Everyone completed

the hike, despite their lack of experience,

fear of heights and the heat.

Back at the hotel, we had a quick shower

before gathering for a visit to Wicklow

Wolf Brewery. The owner gave us a

humorous and entertaining account of

his life’s work, and those who wanted to

have the opportunity to sample several

of the brewery’s popular beers. When we

left, there were glasses and sample cans

to pack into our luggage

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IPA CONNECT NOVEMBER 2026 — Page 16

IPA Ireland then treated everyone to

dinner, and naturally we took the

opportunity to photograph almost all

the participants together for a group

photo.

On Sunday morning, #SHEisIPA

presented a cheque for €650 to “Little

Blue Heroes”.

Little Blue Heroes is an Irish non-profit

charity founded in 2017. It is run by

volunteers, including members of An

Garda Síochána, the Irish police service.

The organisation provides financial and

practical support to families with

seriously ill children. The children are

made Honorary Gardaí, and the

organisation also contributes towards

family trips and special experiences.

IPA Connect November 2026

The donation from #SHEisIPA was raised

through a raffle held at one of the

seminars at Gimborn, together with

voluntary donations from members of

the network.

Wicklow Garda Station received a visit

around lunchtime, and it was like

stepping into the old police station in

Hjo, Sweden… There was a very familiar

and friendly atmosphere between the

station manager and the officers

working there, with a strong focus on

“community policing”.

we then met a female colleague

responsible for “mental health”. She told

us about her background and how she

helps prevent negative stress through

yoga. She gave us a yoga class, and

mats were rolled out. Gentle

movements gradually developed into

more challenging exercises. We followed

her instructions and felt considerably

less stiff in all those hiking muscles

afterwards.

Then it was time to take a dip in the Irish

Sea!

Everyone had heard how cold these

waters were supposed to be. Imagine

everyone’s surprise when we were able

to walk into the water from the beach

without a single groan or complaint. It

was warmer than the Swedish west

coast! We had a wonderful swim, and

some even took the opportunity to jump

from the pier.

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IPA CONNECT NOVEMBER 2026 — Page 17

The weekend was drawing to a close,

but we had a national Hurling match to

watch on TV in the hotel bar.

Hurling is an Irish team sport played on

a rectangular pitch with an H-shaped

goal at each end. The dimensions of the

pitch and goals are the same as those

used in Gaelic football, with

approximately maximum dimensions of

137 x 82 meters. Each team consists of

fifteen players. Hurling is said to be the

fastest field sport in the world.

Why not join us in

Gothenburg

22-26 April 2027

IPA Connect November 2026

Naturally, we supported the “underdog”,

but Limerick took the game, leaving

Glasgow to enjoy our support from the

sidelines.

We returned to Wicklow for a pleasant

dinner at one of the restaurants by the

water. And, much to your surprise, we

then all headed to a pub to watch the

FIFA World Cup final.

We slept very well after a weekend of

hiking, yoga, swimming and two exciting

matches!

Monday was travel day for everyone. We

returned to Dublin in our minibus and

visited a few sights before it was time for

passport and security checks.

IPA Sweden will now take over the baton

and organise the second #SHEisHIKING

event in the Gothenburg area.

May-Britt R. Ronnebro

#SHEisIPA

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IPA CONNECT NOVEMBER 2026 — Page 18

MEMBERS

Young Members: Turning

Ideas into Opportunities

Young members bring energy,

experience and fresh perspectives to

the IPA. The Young Members Project

Team has been working to turn that

potential into meaningful opportunities

across our Sections. The 2026 IPA World

Congress is an important moment for

that work.

A key focus has been the proposed

updates to the procedures for the

Young Police Officers’ Seminar (YPOS)

and the Strategic Young Members

Conference (SYMC). Both programmes

bring young members together to learn

from colleagues in other countries, build

friendships and develop ideas for the

future of our Association. Our team has

contributed its practical experience to

the proposed changes, which will be

considered through the World Congress

process.

We have also been advising Sections

interested in hosting a future YPOS or

SYMC. An application begins with an

idea, but it also calls for a strong team, a

programme and committed partners.

By sharing what we have learned, we

hope to help more Sections take that

step with confidence.

IPA Connect November 2026

YPOS Germany 2026 showed what

becomes possible when a Section, its

volunteers and its partners work

together. Fifty-two young police officers

from 31 nations explored the future of

police training and formed friendships

that will continue well beyond the

seminar.

Looking ahead, closer cooperation with

other Project Teams and the

International Commissions will be an

essential part of our work. Young

members are interested in professional

learning, cultural exchange, friendship

and opportunities to contribute. By

connecting our activities, we can help

them discover and make the most of

everything the IPA has to offer.

Whatever decisions are taken at the

World Congress, our aim remains clear:

young members should have the

chance to take part, share their ideas

and help shape the IPA’s future. We look

forward to working with Sections and

colleagues across the Association to

make that happen.

Philipp Kurz

Young Members Project Team

18

IPA CONNECT NOVEMBER 2026 — Page 19

The IPA Photography Overall Winner Bogdan MihaiNegoita – IPA Romania

Competition 2026 has now

concluded, celebrating the

creativity and talent of IPA

members from around the

world. The competition featured

two categories: an Open

Category for any photographic

subject and a Subject Category

focusing on police at work, with

an emphasis on women in

policing. A €400 prize was

awarded to the overall winner,

with €300 for each category

winner, €200 for second place

and €100 for third place,

alongside six additional Merit

Awards.

The winning photographs were announced during the 69th IPA World Congress in Colombo, Sri

Lanka, where a selection of the best entries was also displayed.

Open Category

JoseLuis Montes Garrido IPA Spain

1st

Assi Dvilanski – IPA Israel

Arturas Tamkevicius

IPA Lithuania

2nd

IPA Connect November 2026

RESULTS OF

THE IPA PHOTO

COMPETITION

2026

4th place (joint):

Elmahadi Almog – IPA

Israel

4th place (joint):

Avidan Damti – IPA

Israel

6th place:

Szabolcs Toth – IPA

Hungary

3rd

19

IPA CONNECT NOVEMBER 2026 — Page 20

RESULTS OF THE

IPA PHOTO

COMPETITION

2026

Police Category

The standard in the Police

Category of this year’s

International Police Association

Photography Competition was

exceptionally high. The

photographs were outstanding in

both quality and creativity,

capturing a remarkable breadth

of topics and perspectives that

showcased the diversity,

dedication and many facets of

1st

policing.

Alex Stammers - IPA New Zealand

4th place: Adi Felix

– IPA Israel

5th place (joint): Dominik Stanek

– IPA Poland

5th place (joint):

Busuioc Cosmin Bogdan –IPA Romania

2nd

We say a big Thank you to our International Jury

Freddie Peake – IPA USA

Agnieszka Bohdanowicz, Photo Journalist at TVP,

Poland

Harry Mootoosamy, Photographer, Mauritius

Janet Nyamwamu, Photographer , Kenya

3rd

Aneta Sobieraj, Photographer & Member of the

IPA SCC , IPA Poland

Justo Barbancho Perez – IPA Spain

IPA Connect November 2026 20

IPA CONNECT NOVEMBER 2026 — Page 21

RESULTS OF THE IPA

CHILDREN’S

DRAWING

COMPETITION 2026

Overall Winner

Solomon Shtok

Israel

IPA Connect November 2026

The results of the International Police

Association Children’s Drawing

Competition were announced on 23

October at the 69th IPA World Congress

in Sri Lanka. As in previous years, the

standard of entries was exceptionally

high, with talented young artists from

across the world sharing their creativity,

imagination and unique perspectives

through their artwork.

21

IPA CONNECT NOVEMBER 2026 — Page 22

Category: Cars

st

1 Place - Andrew SHINKARENKO 2nd Place - Emil PIACENZA

Ukraine Switzerland

Category: Animals

st

1 Place - Belen Garcia 2nd Place - Mia ALCOCK

AGUADO - Spain Australia

Category: Environment

st 2nd Place - Afzal M KHAN

1 Place - Fatima RAJA

Pakistan Pakistan

IPA Connect November 2026

RESULTS OF THE IPA

CHILDREN’S

DRAWING

COMPETITION 2026

3rd Place - Anita LUKOSIUTE

Lithuania

3rd Place - Victoria SHINKARENKO

Ukraine

3rd Place - Euthalla TAKOU

Greece

22

IPA CONNECT NOVEMBER 2026 — Page 23

RESULTS OF THE IPA

CHILDREN’S

DRAWING

COMPETITION 2026

Schools - Category: Animals - Maria Leonor GERALDES - Portugal

Cat C - Individuals - Julija Cepulyte-IPA LITHUANIA

IPA Connect November 2026 23

IPA CONNECT NOVEMBER 2026 — Page 24

Results of the IPA Literary

Competition 2026

Literary Competition Results

Short Stories-Professional

Grand Prize- Marius-Gheorghita Cosofret (Romania) - The Math Problem

1st place: Vladimir Pipam (Slovenia)- Portoroz Rhapsody in G Major

2nd place:Noelia Colmenarejo (Spain) - I Lift Up My eyes

3rd place: Rodrigo Gonzalez Herrera (Colombia) - The Swing-18

Special Recognition

Alina Kusakova (Lithuania) - What Follows me Home

Pamela Keipcile Malebog (Botswana) - Integrity Over Chaos

Krzysztof Kapturski (Poland) - To Serve Through Friendship

John Clifton Hardy (UK) - A Personal Experience

Martin Stow (Australia) - A Story of Purpose Beyond the Uniform

Literary Competition Results Short Stories

1st place: Peter Pleydell (UK) - Man To Boy

2nd place: Vicente Corachán (Spain) - With Only Two Blocks

3rd place: Eleni Trataris Cotton (UK) - A Crocodile Lurks On The Sand

Special Recognition

Maria Elizabeth Marrero-Pérez (Puerto Rico-USA) - Mourning For Milagros

Svetlana Zozulia (Spain) - Time To Wake Up

Aleksandra Kowalik (Poland) - Fortuna’s Emblem - A Double Life

IPA Connect November 2026 24

IPA CONNECT NOVEMBER 2026 — Page 25

Results of the IPA Literary Competition 2026

Literary Competition Results Poetry - Professional Version

1st place: Sunethra Senevirathne (Sri Lanka) - Beyond The Uniform

2nd place: Tracy Jennings (Northern Ireland – UK) - SUDI (Sudden

Unexplained Death of an Infant

3rd place: Margarida Pendilhas (Belgium) - Servo Per Amikeco

Special Recognition

Joaquim García Mentui (Spain) - Asphalt Samurai / Late Night Reflections

Ivan Sardak (Russia) - Police of World / Alpine Notes / Police Friendship

Week

Literary Competition Results - Poetry - Free Version

1st place: Michaela Carmen Alexandrescu (Romania) - About Love

2nd place: María Elizabeth Marrero-Pérez (Puerto Rico – USA) - Mourning

3rd place: Javier Otero (Spain) - A Sigh from the Soul / Warrior Dance

The entries to the IPA Literary Competition were compiled

into a special book, which was distributed during the IPA

World Congress in Colombo, Sri Lanka, in October 2026.

You can read a copy of the book here and enjoy the fantastic

stories and creative talents of our IPA members from around

the world.

View Book

IPA Connect November 2026 25

IPA CONNECT NOVEMBER 2026 — Page 26

The friendship tree planted in

front of the IPA house in

Lisbon is a symbol of the unity

of the IPA family

During the international meeting of

representatives of IPA sections,

dedicated to IPA houses and the

improvement of accommodation

options for members, a tree of

friendship was planted in front of the IPA

house in Lisbon, as part of the IPA Green

project, as a symbol of lasting

friendship, cooperation, and connection

between the members of the

international police association.

The planting of the tree had a special

symbolism - just as a tree grows and

spreads its roots and branches, so the

IPA spreads strong friendship,

cooperation and support for all its

members - police officers around the

world and their families.

IPA Connect November 2026

This event sends a message of

togetherness and recalls the motto of

IPA Servo per Amikeco, and the tree of

friendship remains as a permanent

symbol of meeting in Lisbon and working

together.

The tree planted earlier in front of the

IPA house in Lisbon, as part of Orange

the World, has given its first fruit, which is

a symbol of the success of the joint work

of women in the IPA and the fight

against domestic violence.

The IPA Green Project is the shared

responsibility of IPA members towards

nature, sustainability and future

generations, confirming that friendship

through joint work can leave a greener

and more lasting footprint.

Biljana Dulović

Project Lead of the IPA Green project

26

IPA CONNECT NOVEMBER 2026 — Page 27

IPA

SPORTS

The Countdown Is On

for the 2nd IPA World

Football Tournament!

Excitement is building as preparations

continue for the 2nd IPA World Football

Tournament, taking place in Cambrils,

Spain, from 7–11 April 2027!

Following the success of the first edition,

IPA members from around the world are

once again invited to come together for

an unforgettable celebration of football,

friendship and international

camaraderie.

With both Men’s Open and Women’s

Open categories, the tournament

promises exciting matches, friendly

competition and plenty of opportunities

to strengthen friendships across

borders.

Participants can look forward to

excellent sporting facilities,

accommodation in a 4-star hotel just

100 metres from the beach, and an

organised programme including full-

board accommodation, transfers, a

Gala Dinner and commemorative gifts.

IPA Connect November 2026

Thinking of getting your team together?

Now is the time to start planning!

Participation is limited to one team per

National Section, with each section

responsible for nominating a team

coordinator and arranging registration

through the organisers.

For further details, including

participation conditions,

accommodation and the full

tournament programme, please refer to

the official Cambrils 2027 presentation

and contact your National Section.

Get ready for football, friendship and the

spirit of Servo per Amikeco in sunny

Spain!

Watch the

Promotional Video

To give you a taste of what awaits in

Cambrils, take a look at the promotional

video prepared by our hosts and start

getting excited for another fantastic

celebration of football and IPA

friendship!

Watch the Video

27

IPA CONNECT NOVEMBER 2026 — Page 28

Lisbon Hosted The Hosting

Sections’ Meeting 2026

Building bridges,

strengthening bonds and

leaving roots

Between September 4th and 7th, 2026,

Lisbon became a meeting point for the

large family of the International Police

Association, by hosting the Hosting

Sections' Meeting – Lisbon 2026,

organized by the Portuguese Section of

the IPA.

For four days, representatives of

National Sections from different

countries met in the Portuguese capital

to reflect on the present and future of

the IPA Accommodation network, share

experiences and good practices and

seek answers to common challenges.

IPA Connect November 2026

Bulgaria, Denmark, France, Germany,

Ireland, Greece, Luxembourg,

Montenegro, Pakistan, Poland, Portugal,

Romania, Serbia, Spain, Sweden, Turkey,

Iceland and the United Kingdom were

represented. But this meeting was much

more than a work meeting. It was also a

space for reunion, discovery,

cooperation and, above all, friendship —

that friendship without borders that is at

the genesis of the International Police

Association and that continues to give

true meaning to the motto Servo per

Amikeco — Service through Friendship.

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxLisbon welcomed the IPA family

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxTheprogrambeganonSeptember 4,

with the arrival and reception of

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

delegations at Casa IPA Nacional, in

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Lisbon.

A welcome drink marked the welcome

to the participants, followed by a dinner

in the Casa IPA lounge in an informal

atmosphere marked by Portuguese

hospitality, there was an opportunity for

reunions, presentations and first

conversations between representatives

from different national realities.

It was the beginning of four days that

would combine two inseparable

dimensions of the IPA: work and

friendship.

28

IPA CONNECT NOVEMBER 2026 — Page 29

IBecause it is also in these moments,

around a table and in a conversation

between people who share the same

values, that many of the ideas, projects

and relationships that later turn into

effective cooperation between the

Sections begin.

Thinking about the future of Casas IPA

On the morning of September 5, the

official work agenda began.

After the traditional family photograph,

the participants gathered in the

Anabela Alferes Noble Hall, at Casa IPA

Nacional, for a day dedicated to the

analysis of the different realities of the

IPA Houses and the international

network of accommodation made

available to the members of the

Association.

The interventions of the various Sections

made it possible to learn about different

operating and management models, to

identify common difficulties and, above

ail, to share solutions and experiences

that could contribute to improving the

IPA Connect November 2026

international IPA accommodation

network

Among the issues addressed were the

rules of operation and management of

Casas IPA, reservation policies,

cancellation procedures, the rights and

responsibilities of users and the need to

promote greater uniformity of

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

procedures.

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

One of the topics that deserved

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

particular reflection was the possibility

of defining ten common rules

applicable to IPA Houses, seeking to

establish shared principles regarding

reservations, cancellations, use of the

facilities and guest responsibilities.

Greater harmonisation will make it

possible to offer members travelling

between different countries a simpler,

more predictable and transparent

experience, while respecting the

specificities and autonomy of each

National Section.

29

IPA CONNECT NOVEMBER 2026 — Page 30

More accommodation,

more opportunities, more

cooperation

The growth and diversification of the

accommodation supply were also

important topics of the meeting.

In addition to the existing IPA Houses, the

possibility of expanding the options

available to members through the

establishment of partnerships with

hotels, accommodation units and other

entities was analysed, creating a

complementary network capable of

responding to the growing mobility of

IPA members and their families.

This perspective goes beyond the

simple provision of beds or rooms.

Each accommodation possibility

created in the IPA universe also

represents a new opportunity to travel,

get to know other countries and other

cultures, establish contacts and live, in

practice, the international dimension of

the Association.

The meeting also made it possible to

analyse the current booking

mechanisms, including the use of

Google Forms for the submission of

requests.

The accumulated experience allowed us

to identify some limitations and

difficulties in operation, namely

situations in which requests do not

arrive correctly at the recipient Sections.

IPA Connect November 2026

The improvement and simplification of

these procedures was, therefore,

recognized as an area of particular

importance for the future, seeking to

make access to the IPA hosting network

increasingly easier, efficient and

functional.

Taking IPA Houses further

At a time when most travel-related

decisions start on a mobile phone or a

computer, digital communication could

not fail to be part of the reflection.

The need to strengthen the international

promotion of the IPA Houses was

stressed, taking advantage of the social

networks, the media of the National

Sections and the channels of the

International IPA.

Giving greater visibility to IPA Houses

means showing not only rooms and

facilities, but also the destinations where

they are located, the possibilities they

offer and, above all, the differentiating

experience of traveling as part of a truly

international organization.

The better members know about the

existing network, the greater its use and

the greater the circulation and contact

between members of different Sections.

At the end of the working day, a

perception was widely shared by the

participants: the meeting had been

useful, productive and enriching,

allowing them to confront experiences,

identify problems, seek solutions and

open up new possibilities for

cooperation.

But Lisbon still had other moments in

store.

30

IPA CONNECT NOVEMBER 2026 — Page 31

A tree to stay in Lisbon

At the end of the afternoon of the 5th, an

initiative was carried out as part of IPA

Green, an international project that

associates IPA's values with

environmental responsibility and

awareness of sustainability.

In the presence of the participants and

Biljana Dulović, President of IPA

Montenegro and international

responsible for the IPA Green project, a

tree was planted in the outdoor space,

in front of the National IPA House.

An apparently simple gesture, but

loaded with symbolism.

The choice of location was not

accidental.

A few days later, the participants would

return to their countries. The meeting

would end, the bags would be packed

again and Lisbon would be left behind.

The tree, however, would remain.

It will stand in front of Casa IPA Nacional

as a living memory of Hosting Sections'

Meeting – Lisbon 2026 and as a symbol

of a commitment that is intended to

last.

Over the years it will grow, take root and

change with the seasons. Just like

friendship. Because friendship also

needs roots to remain, space to grow

and care to be strengthened.

IPA Connect November 2026

Portugal and Montenegro: from

friendship to compromise

The afternoon was also marked by

another moment of special institutional

significance: the signing of the Twinning

and Institutional Cooperation Protocol

between IPA Portugal and IPA

Montenegro.

The document formalized a privileged

relationship between the two National

Sections, based on friendship,

reciprocity and the common desire to

develop a permanent partnership.

More than formalizing an institutional

relationship, the Protocol transforms a

friendship built over time into a

commitment for the future.

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

A commitment to rapprochement

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

between members, exchange of

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

experiences, development of joint

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

initiatives and cooperation in areas of

common interest.

Portugal and Montenegro were thus

linked by an instrument that aims to

create new opportunities for the

members of the two Sections and

deepen the ties that already unite their

leaders and associates.

This is also the essence of IPA: to

transform contacts into relationships,

relationships into friendship and

friendship into lasting cooperation.

31

IPA CONNECT NOVEMBER 2026 — Page 32

The Sado, the dolphins and the time

to be together

After the intensity of the working day,

September 6 was dedicated to the

social program.

The participants went to Setúbal, where

they had the opportunity to take a boat

trip on the Sado River, discovering one of

the most emblematic natural

landscapes in the region.

The possibility of observing dolphins in

their natural habitat made the

experience even more special. Between

the river, the landscape, the

conversations and the inevitable

photographs, there was above all time

for what no work agenda can replace:

being together.

Because the social programs of an

international meeting are not just

moments of leisure. They are also

spaces where relationships are

deepened, distances disappear,

complicities are born and common

memories are created.

And it is often precisely there that the IPA

spirit finds one of its most genuine

expressions.

IPA Connect November 2026

A dinner to celebrate what unites us

On the night of September 6, the

Farewell Dinner was held, marking the

official closing of the program.

It was the moment to bring all the

participants together around the same

table again, remember the days lived in

Lisbon and celebrate the relationships

created or strengthened in the

meantime.

The presence of His Excellency the

National Director of the Public Security

Police, Chief Superintendent, Luís

Carrilho, an associate of the IPA and

also Honorary Vice-President of the

Portuguese Section, gave special

significance to the moment and also

represented the recognition of the

importance of the International Police

Association and the holding of this

international meeting in Portugal.

As a souvenir of participating in the

Hosting Sections' Meeting – Lisbon 2026,

participants were given a diploma of

participation, a family photograph and

a souvenir of the city of Lisbon.

Simple objects, but intended to keep the

memory of an experience that went far

beyond the formal program of the

meeting.

32

IPA CONNECT NOVEMBER 2026 — Page 33

A Portuguese organization, a truly

international meeting

For IPA Portugal, hosting this meeting

was simultaneously a responsibility, an

honor and an opportunity.

Organizing an international meeting of

this nature in Lisbon meant welcoming

colleagues and friends from different

countries, ensuring the necessary

conditions for the development of the

work and, at the same time, providing

an experience capable of showing a

little of Portugal, its hospitality and the

way in which the Portuguese Section

understands and lives the values of the

IPA.

The recognition expressed by the

participants regarding the quality of the

organization, the reception and the

program developed was, therefore, a

reason for particular satisfaction.

This result was possible thanks to the

involvement of all those who, directly or

indirectly, contributed to the preparation

and realization of the meeting, as well

as the entities and partners that

supported IPA Portugal at the different

moments of the program.

More than the logistical success of an

event, there was the satisfaction of

having provided conditions for the IPA

family to meet, work, debate ideas and

strengthen relationships.

IPA Connect November 2026

See you soon, Lisbon

On September 7, the time for farewells

inevitably arrived.

The delegations began to return to their

countries, taking documents,

photographs and souvenirs in their

luggage, but also new ideas, new

contacts and, hopefully, good memories

of Portugal.

For four days, Lisbon was much more

than the place where an international

meeting was held.

It was a meeting point.

It was a space for dialogue.

It was a place of cooperation.

It was a friend's house.

A Hosting Sections’ Meeting – Lisbon

2026, terminou.

But what was built here will continue.

IAnd, year after year, as long as that tree

grows in Lisbon, there will also be a living

symbol of the days when the IPA family

once again demonstrated that borders,

languages and distances can separate

countries, but do not prevent people

from meeting around the same values.

That is the most important asset that a

meeting like this can leave.

Not just decisions.

Not just projects.

But bridges, roots and friendship.

Servo per Amikeco — Service through

Friendship.

Paula Borralho

Vice-President of IPA Portugal

33

IPA CONNECT NOVEMBER 2026 — Page 34

Serves 4

Ingredients

500 g ground beef

1½ teaspoons salt

2/3 teaspoon ground black pepper

2/3 teaspoon ground white pepper

2 tablespoons breadcrumbs

1 egg

50 cl milk or water

2–3 tablespoons butter

2 onions, thinly sliced

2 tablespoons concentrated beef stock

30–40 cl water

1 tablespoon soy sauce

To serve:

12 potatoes, peeled and boiled

1½ cups fresh green peas (or thawed

frozen peas, depending on the season)

Cherry tomatoes

Quick-pickled cucumber: 1 cucumber,

cut into large pieces, mixed with 2

tablespoons chopped dill, 1 tablespoon

sugar, and 1 tablespoon salt in a plastic

bag. Shake well and leave for 3–6

hours. Rinse off the mixture before

serving.

Lingonberry jam

IPA Connect November 2026

Method:

1. Make the quick-pickled cucumber

in the morning so it is ready by

lunchtime.

2. In a bowl, mix the salt, both

peppers, breadcrumbs, egg, and milk

or water. Leave to stand for 15 minutes.

3. Peel the potatoes and set them to

boil.

4. Add the ground beef and mix well.

Leave to rest for 10 minutes.

5. Meanwhile, peel the onions and

slice them thinly.

6. Divide the meat mixture into 12

pieces. Shape them into balls, then

flatten them to about 1 cm thick.

7. Heat a large frying pan and add 1

tablespoon of butter. Fry 6 meatballs

until browned and cooked through,

turning them as needed. Transfer them

to a deep serving dish. Repeat with the

remaining meatballs and another

tablespoon of butter.

8. Add 1 tablespoon of butter to the

empty frying pan and cook the sliced

onions until soft and golden.

9. Leave the onions in the pan and

add the beef stock, soy sauce, and

water. Taste and season with salt and

pepper if needed. Pour the onion gravy

over the meatballs.

10. Serve the meatballs with boiled

potatoes, green peas, cherry tomatoes,

quick-pickled cucumber, and

lingonberry jam.

You can find all PolicemenU

Recipes on the International Website

https://tinyurl.com/ipamenus

34

IPA CONNECT NOVEMBER 2026 — Page 35

Airpol is the European Network for Police

and Border Guard Units at European

airports financed by the EU COM, ISF. The

Airpol scope are Airport Policing, Aviation

Security and Border Security. The main

mission is to enhance the cooperation

between EU airports and to develop work

metods. Airpol has now seven expert

groups ongoing; Insider Threat,

Intelligence, Behaviour Detection,

Securing the Airport Community, Airpol

International AVSEC Police, Technology

and an Exercise Group.

Airpol also carries out peer visits, training

sessions and perform cross border

actions.

The main focus for AIRPOL this year is a

thorough work on a guideline how to

protect landside at the airport. The

behaviour detection development is

another topic with the AIRPOL web-

based part A and the operational Part B

carried out at an airport.

Table-top exercises on Counter-

Terrorism and Insider Awareness are

other activities with 5-10 sessions for

each exercise conducted per year.

For info www.airpoleuropa.eu

Oliver Hoffmann

Vice President & Chairperson

International Relations Commission

IPA Connect November 2026

Signing of the Memorandum of

Understanding with AIRPOL

During the 69th IPA World Congress in Sri

Lanka, delegates had the opportunity to

hear a presentation from AIRPOL,

highlighting the organisation’s work and

its commitment to strengthening

international cooperation.

Following the presentation, we were

pleased to formally sign a Memorandum

of Understanding (MoU) with AIRPOL in

the presence of delegates from around

the world. The signing marks an

important step in developing closer

cooperation and collaboration between

our two organisations, creating

opportunities to share knowledge,

experience and expertise.

We look forward to building on this

partnership and strengthening our

collaboration with AIRPOL in the years

ahead.

35

IPA CONNECT NOVEMBER 2026 — Page 36

IPA

M A R K E T I N G

IPA Marketing Video Competition

– And the Winner Is…

The International Police Association (IPA)

is delighted to announce the winner of

the IPA Marketing Video Competition,

celebrating the creativity, talent and

enthusiasm of our members around the

world.

The competition invited IPA Sections,

regions and individual members to

create a high-quality promotional video

showcasing the values, activities and

international spirit of our Association.

The aim was to produce engaging

content that could be shared across IPA

platforms worldwide, highlighting our

commitment to friendship, professional

cooperation and international

understanding.

We received some excellent entries from

across the globe, demonstrating just

how much talent exists within our

international IPA family. A huge thank

you to everyone who took the time to

participate and submit a video. The

standard of creativity and imagination

was impressive, and it was fantastic to

see the many different ways members

chose to represent our Association.

.

IPA Connect November 2026

One particularly exciting aspect of the

competition was seeing how artificial

intelligence (AI) can be used to create

innovative promotional content. The

possibilities are incredible, and these

entries demonstrated how emerging

technologies can help us explore new

ways to tell our story, reach wider

audiences and promote the fantastic

work of the IPA internationally.

Following evaluation by our

international judging panel, we are

pleased to announce the results:

And the winner is.....

Mirel Basic - IPA Ireland

Runner up -

Eran Israel - Israel

Third Place -

Piotr Wojciechowski - IPAPoland

Congratulations to all three individuals

for their outstanding contributions!

36

IPA CONNECT NOVEMBER 2026 — Page 37

IPA

M A R K E T I N G

I P A M a r k e t i n g V i d e o

C o m p e t i t i o n – A n d t h e

W i n n e r I s …

One particularly exciting aspect of the

competition was seeing how artificial

intelligence (AI) can be used to create

innovative promotional content. The

possibilities are incredible, and these

entries demonstrated how emerging

technologies can help us explore new

ways to tell our story, reach wider aud

The winning video was featured at the

IPA World Congress recently held in Sri

Lanka and will have the opportunity to

feature in the IPA’s official promotional

activities, helping to showcase our

Association and its values to audiences

around the world.

As part of the prize, the winning entrant

will also receive an invitation, with

expenses paid, to attend an

international IPA event. The winner will

be contacted directly to discuss the

arrangements and agree on a suitable

event.

We would once again like to thank

everyone who entered and our judging

panel for their time and contribution.

Your enthusiasm, creativity and

IPA Connect November 2026

willingness to embrace new ideas

demonstrate the strength of our global

network and the many opportunities we

have to promote the IPA in fresh and

engaging ways.

Congratulations to our winner, Mirel

Basic of IPA Ireland and thank you to all

our talented members for helping to

bring the IPA story to life!

Servo per Amikeco – Service Through

Friendship

IPA International Marketing Team

View the Videos

st

1 Place Video - Mirel Basic

2nd Place Video - Eran Israel

3rd Place Video -

Piotr Wojciechowski

A special mentio to all our entrants:

Pieter-Jan Oris - IPA Belgium

Laurie Cook - IPA Canada

Kilinan Naëlya - IPA France

Rana Salahuddin - IPA Pakistan

Sani Kabir Bayero - IPA South Africa

Thank you For

yourParticipation

37

IPA CONNECT NOVEMBER 2026 — Page 38

Austria

Blue Walks – Pink Cause"

campaign

On 4 October 2026, IPA Lower Austria

and IPA Styria jointly organised an

autumn walk followed by a picnic. In

total, around 34 IPA friends took part,

including the President of IPA Austria

Robert Neumann, and the Secretary

General Walter Rosanits. In addition, IPA

Lower Austria organised an asphalt

stock shooting event, which also drew

numerous participants.

All of the sporting activities took place

in excellent weather. There was plenty

of laughter, and new friendships were

made.

We would like to thank the IEB for the

idea, and we will certainly be taking

part again next year.

Elke Strohmeyer

3rd Vice President, IPA Austria

IPA Connect November 2026 38

IPA CONNECT NOVEMBER 2026 — Page 39

Belgium

COPS 2.0: Service Through

Friendship in the Fight

Against Drug-Related Crime

From 16 to 23 August 2026, the

International Police Association

Belgium – Section Antwerp welcomed

an international group of police,

customs and military police

professionals to Campus Vesta in Ranst

for COPS 2.0 – Drugs & Related

Violence. What followed was an

intensive week of learning, practical

training, knowledge exchange and

friendship, all centred on one of the

most pressing security challenges

facing Europe today: organised drug

crime and the violence that

accompanies it.

Although the organisers did not reach

the ambitious number of participants

initially envisaged, the final group of

approximately 15 to 20 colleagues

proved to be the ideal size for what IPA

has always stood for: personal

connections, open dialogue and

international friendship.

Rather than being a limitation, the

smaller group created a close-knit

atmosphere where participants quickly

got to know one another,

IPA Connect November 2026

shared experiences from their

respective countries and built

professional networks that will

undoubtedly continue long after the

seminar.

The seminar combined strategic,

operational and practical perspectives

on combating organised crime.

Throughout the week, participants

received presentations from Belgian

specialists working on the frontlines of

the fight against drug trafficking and

related violence. Topics ranged from the

role of the Belgian police and

international cooperation to customs,

military policing, synthetic drug

production, hidden compartments and

specialised support services.

One of the highlights was the

presentation by the Federal Maritime &

River Police (SPN), which provided a

detailed insight into Belgium's

waterborne policing capabilities and the

ongoing battle against cocaine

trafficking through the Port of Antwerp.

Participants learned about the evolution

of the service, its specialised vessels

and its Technical Support Team (TST),

which supports investigations involving

hidden compartments, evidence

recovery, drugs, explosives and

underwater searches. The session also

illustrated how the maritime police

strengthened their operational response

following the wave of drug-related

violence that affected Antwerp in recent

years.

39

IPA CONNECT NOVEMBER 2026 — Page 40

Belgium Cont

Another thought-provoking

presentation was delivered by Annemie

De Boye of ARIEC Limburg, who

explained the growing importance of

the administrative approach to

organised crime. Participants

discovered how municipalities, mayors

and administrative authorities can play

a crucial role in disrupting criminal

networks by using licensing policies,

inspections, information sharing and

integrity screenings. The presentation

demonstrated that combating

organised crime requires far more than

arrests alone; it demands a

coordinated effort involving police,

judicial authorities, tax administrations

and local governments.

The international dimension of

organised crime was further explored

through a specialist session on hidden

compartments in vehicles. Experts from

the International Concealed

Compartments Network explained how

criminal organisations use increasingly

sophisticated concealment methods to

transport drugs, cash and weapons

across borders.

Participants gained valuable

operational knowledge on identifying

indicators, conducting searches safely

and preserving forensic evidence, while

IPA Connect November 2026

COPS 2.0: Service Through

Friendship in the Fight

Against Drug-Related Crime

also learning about the importance of

European cooperation and information

sharing in tackling these criminal

techniques.

A particularly impressive day focused

on synthetic drug production, a

criminal phenomenon with which

Belgium is increasingly confronted.

Specialists explained the evolution of

drug laboratories, the chemicals and

equipment used in large-scale

production of amphetamine, MDMA,

methamphetamine and synthetic

cathinones, as well as emerging trends

in the criminal landscape. Participants

gained insight into the multidisciplinary

Belgian approach, involving police,

forensic experts and hazardous

materials specialists working together

to detect and dismantle clandestine

laboratories.

Equally important was the emphasis on

safety. Detailed briefings highlighted

the significant risks associated with

synthetic drug laboratories, including

toxic gases, fires, explosions, corrosive

chemicals, environmental

contamination and improvised or

defective equipment. Officers were

reminded that recognising a laboratory

is only the first step; knowing how to

safely secure a scene and request

specialised assistance can be equally

important.

While the lectures provided

participants with valuable expertise,

Friday's programme demonstrated that

policing ultimately remains a practical

profession. The entire day was

dedicated to hands-on training and

scenario-based learning.

40

IPA CONNECT NOVEMBER 2026 — Page 41

Belgium Cont

This was followed by baton training,

also based on the principles of Doce

Pares Eskrima. Participants refined their

skills in the lawful and effective use of

the baton while developing a better

understanding of distance

management, movement and personal

protection during confrontational

situations.

Perhaps the most engaging part of the

practical day was the roleplay

programme. Participants were

confronted with realistic scenarios

based on incidents and operational

situations that Belgian police services

have encountered. Working together,

colleagues from different countries

were challenged to solve the situations

using their own experience, tactics and

professional judgement. After each

exercise, Belgian officers provided

feedback, operational insights and

practical recommendations. These

discussions quickly became one of the

most valuable learning opportunities of

the week, as participants discovered

how different countries approach

similar policing challenges. The

exchange of knowledge, tactics and

professional experiences perfectly

reflected the international spirit of the

seminar.

IPA Connect November 2026

Beyond the classroom and training

grounds, COPS 2.0 delivered what IPA

events do best: bringing people

together. The all-inclusive residential

format, shared meals, evening

conversations and informal networking

opportunities helped create friendships

and professional connections that

cannot be achieved through online

meetings or short conferences. The

famous IPA spirit was present

throughout the week.

The programme concluded with a visit

to Antwerp, where participants explored

the city through the eyes of a

specialised crime guide. Historical

crime scenes, policing stories and

modern-day challenges provided an

interesting cultural and professional

perspective on Belgium's largest port

city before participants enjoyed some

free time to discover Antwerp on their

own.

Looking back, COPS 2.0 was much more

than a seminar about drugs and

related violence. It became a platform

where operational experts,

investigators and frontline officers

could learn from one another,

challenge each other's perspectives

and build lasting international

partnerships. The combination of expert

presentations, practical workshops,

realistic scenarios and informal

networking created precisely the

environment that the IPA seeks to

foster.

In the end, the success of COPS 2.0 was

not measured by the number of

participants, but by the quality of the

experience shared among them. The

friendships formed, the lessons learned

and the international cooperation

strengthened during the week are a

testament to the enduring relevance of

the IPA motto:

Servo per Amikeco – Service Through

Friendship

Sven Maertens - IPA Belgium

41

IPA CONNECT NOVEMBER 2026 — Page 42

IPA House Dublin

Ireland

IPA HOUSE IN DUBLIN, IRELAND

Discover the charm and energy of Dublin

while enjoying a comfortable stay just 2

km from the vibrant city centre. Nestled

in a peaceful neighbourhood, this

accommodation offers the perfect

balance of relaxation and easy access

to Dublin's famous attractions, cultural

landmarks, lively pubs, shopping streets,

and historic sites. Convenient bus

connections from Botanic Road and

Drumcondra Road make exploring the

city effortless. After a day of sightseeing,

unwind on the patio with a BBQ or make

use of the laundry facilities. With

spacious dining, sitting, and conference

areas, six well-appointed bedrooms, a

fully equipped kitchen, three showers,

and two separate toilets, it's an ideal

choice for families, groups, and city

breaks alike.

IPA Connect November 2026

Location: Dublin

House Manager:

Bookings: ipairish@gmail.com

International Code:

Accomodation: IPA House

Sleeps: 14

Rooms:6

Additional info:

Dining sitting and conference rooms.

6 bedrooms 4 of which are ensuite.

2 showers, 2 separate toilets.

Large kitchen.

For More Information on

this house or other IPA

Houses please visit The

International Website:

https://ipa-

international.org/ipa-

houses/

42

IPA CONNECT NOVEMBER 2026 — Page 43

Bosnia &

Herzegovina

9th IPA Motorcycle Meeting –

Sarajevo 2026

From 3 to 6 September 2026, the 9th IPA

Motorcycle Meeting was successfully

held in Sarajevo, organized by the IPA

Section Bosnia and Herzegovina –

Regional Club Sarajevo.

The meeting brought together more

than 120 participants from 13 European

countries, once again highlighting the

importance of international friendship,

cooperation, and connections among

IPA members through shared activities.

During the event, participants had the

opportunity to discover the natural and

tourist attractions of Bosnia and

Herzegovina. Organized motorcycle

rides took them across Bjelašnica

Mountain to Boračko Lake and Konjic, as

well as to Jahorina Mountain and

Orlovača Cave.

IPA Connect November 2026

The entire event took place in an

exceptionally friendly atmosphere, with

opportunities for socializing, exchanging

experiences, and building new

friendships among IPA members from

different European countries.

The meeting once again demonstrated

the values and strength of the

international IPA family, in the spirit of

our motto:

Servo per Amikeco – Service Through

Friendship.

IPA Bosnia & Herzegovina

43

IPA CONNECT NOVEMBER 2026 — Page 44

Botswana

On Friday 18th September 2026, the

International Police Association, North

Central Region, Botswana, under its

motto *Servo Per Amikeco – Service

Through Friendship*, embarked on a

community outreach initiative at

Makolojane Primary School in Serowe

Village. The activity involved the

donation of 15 pairs of school shoes to

identified needy learners.

Objective

To support vulnerable learners with

basic school requirements

To promote school attendance and

learner dignity

To strengthen police-community

partnership

- To fulfill IPA's humanitarian and

social responsibility mandate

Donation Process

The beneficiaries were identified by

the school management based on

need.

IPA Connect November 2026

Donation of 15 Pairs of School

Shoes to Makolojane Primary

School, Serowe Village

Date: Friday, 18th

September 2026

Venue: Makolojane

Primary School,

Serowe Village

Donor: International

Police Association

(IPA) - North Central

Region, Botswana

Beneficiary:

Makolojane Primary

School Learners

The shoes were officially handed over by

the IPA North Central Region Executive to

the School Head. The School Head

expressed sincere gratitude and stated

that the donation will motivate learners

and ease their daily challenges of

walking long distances to school.

Impact

The donation was warmly received by

learners, teachers and parents. It has

boosted learner morale and

strengthened the relationship between

the police and the community.

Conclusion

The donation was a success and aligns

with IPA's values of friendship and

service. The Association remains

committed to continue supporting

needy communities in the North Central

Region.

SERVO PER AMIKECO!

Pelonomi Juliah MARUMO

IPA Botswana

44

IPA CONNECT NOVEMBER 2026 — Page 45

Israel

IPA Israel Tribute Evening

For the third consecutive year, IPA Israel

held a tribute evening honoring Israel

Police officer, the families of fallen

officers, and the wounded.

The event took place at the Tel Aviv

Performing Arts Center, attended by

nearly 3,000 IPA members. Former

Commissioners, commanders, and the

former Minister of Public Security were

also invited to the tribute.

Commissioner Dani Levy highlighted

IPA’s significant contribution to the

Israel Police and its retirees, noting the

organization's role in providing a warm,

supportive, and helpful environment.

IPA Israel President Adv. Gal Sharon

remarked: "We are concluding four

years of significant activity, and I am

proud of the journey we have taken

together to transform IPA Israel into a

stronger, more advanced organization

that serves as a home and a family to

its members.

IPA Connect November 2026

Throughout these four difficult and

challenging years, we have embraced

the families of the fallen and the

wounded."

IPA Israel continues to support and

assist the families of fallen police

officers and those who were wounded.

This is largely due to donations from

police organizations around the world—

particularly Jewish police associations

in New York.

Thus, beyond paying tribute to the

officers, the families of the fallen, and

the wounded, practical aid is also

provided directly to the families.

The performer at the tribute event was

Idan Amedi, a leading Israeli singer; he

had been severely wounded in the war

and returned to performing after a long

rehabilitation period. He was wounded

alongside a police officer from the

counter-terrorism unit who was

subsequently killed in action.

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IPA CONNECT NOVEMBER 2026 — Page 46

Israel Cont

IPA Israel Tribute Evening

Amedi dedicated his songs to the

officer's mother, who was present at

the event.

The main event serves as a summary of

the current operational year, during

which emphasis was placed on

implementing a new computer system

to assist with management, logistics,

budgeting, and member services.

Concurrently, service efficiency is being

enhanced through amendments to the

bylaws and changes to the

organizational structure of the

branches. A revolution is also underway

regarding IPA membership, driven by a

new digital application form,

coordination with the recruitment

bureaus of the Israel Police and the

Israel Prison Service,

IPA Connect November 2026

and the introduction of a new digital

information page that links directly to

the IPA application form. The system

has been operational for three months,

already attracting nearly 1,000 new

members—all active-duty police

officers.

This salute event honors police officers

while also recognizing the extensive

network of branch chairpersons,

presidency members, and staff who

drive this momentum of activity.

Eran Israel

IPA Israel

46

IPA CONNECT NOVEMBER 2026 — Page 47

Israel

What is the factor that most influences

our ability to recruit new members to the

IPA?

This topic came up in many discussions

at the IPA Management Academy.

Many ideas came up, all of which were

distributed to all branches as part of the

summaries of the discussions at the

Management Academy.

There were ideas that dealt with long-

term strategy, setting goals, directions of

action, principles, values. The common

denominator for all of these ideas was

that they all dealt with the ethical,

conceptual aspect and less with

technology and useful tools for

recruiting.

n most discussions at the Management

Academy, practical questions arose,

such as the difference between national

branches regarding the collection of

IPA Connect November 2026

The secrets behind

recruiting new members to

the IPA

membership fees. How to join, retaining

members after retirement.

There were discussions that dealt with

different recruitment methods, targeting

members by age groups, places for initial

meetings, mainly in academies and

police colleges.

The conclusions revealed a disturbing

picture: most recruitment is related to the

technical tools and places where

members are recruited, just as most

retirements stem from procedural issues

of continuing to collect membership fee.

From the summaries of the discussions

and tests I conducted with members

from many sections around the world,

the following picture emerges: young

members join because of the framework,

or the contact of a senior officer, or as

part of the recruitment process for the

police.

47

IPA CONNECT NOVEMBER 2026 — Page 48

Israel Cont

They usually do not know the IPA in

depth, do not really know what they

receive from the organization.

Payment of membership fee comes

from the paycheck, and therefore in

sections that have close ties with the

police and the police technological

systems, including salaries, it is easy to

recruit new members.

The meeting with them takes place in

the early stages of police training. And

what happens when you retire? In

sections where pension funds are

provided by the police or the office that

deals with salaries, membership in the

IPA continues.

As soon as there is a disconnect and

the salary comes from another source,

the retired member has to re-arrange

his membership in the organization, and

this is where there is a big downfall.

We analyzed the situation in IPA Israel,

with the intention of helping sections

around the world learn from our

experience.

IPA Israel is a very large section with

24,000 members in a country where the

police force has only 30,000 members.

We lose about 1,000 members every

year for the following reasons: nearly

400 die, and the rest are members we

proactively expel.

IPA Connect November 2026

The secrets behind

recruiting new members to

the IPA

Every IPA member over the age of 80

receives a phone call from a member

of the national board who is dealing

with this and other members.

We check the member's condition,

whether he benefits from IPA's services,

and his health.

There are elderly members who are in

nursing homes, hospitalized, and those

with whom we have no contact.

We check with the member or his

family whether he wants to remain a

member of IPA. There are sick and

nursing members who see their dignity

being violated. Longtime members who

consider membership in the IPA an

honor and are not willing to disengage,

regardless of their situation.

At the same time, we recruit around

1,000 new members each year, so the

number of members in the organization

remains the same. Most of the new

members are young police officers who

get to know the IPA through their local

branches.

In Israel, the membership fees of a

serving police officer, a prison guard,

and retirees are managed by a single

system through the pay stub or benefit,

and in this respect, it is very convenient,

because there is no need for separate

registration. We have another group of

Civil Guard volunteers who serve like

police officers without pay and on a

voluntary basis. They pay their

membership fees by annual standing

order.

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IPA CONNECT NOVEMBER 2026 — Page 49

Israel Cont

In Israel, there is a great advantage in

that the salary system allows

membership fees to be paid from the

pay stub, even for retirees.

This does not exist in all sections in the

world, and it turns out that the solution is

not ideological, but simply to reach an

agreement with the relevant ministry

and arrange the payment of

membership fees.

Another issue is the joining process. You

have to go to the police officers and

bring them registration forms, and this is

where a cumbersome bureaucratic

process begins.

We recently added an IPA membership

form to the IPA Israel website Digital. It is

important to emphasize that we have

had such forms in the past and the

problem is security and maintaining the

police officer's details. It is necessary to

regulate the storage of information with

the police and the person responsible

for the IPA's technological system. From

the moment the system went live, within

a week over 300 new police officers

joined the IPA. Solely as a result of the

new technological system.

What happens when an IPA sections

becomes a closed club and there is no

desire to open it to new members? Here

the data speaks for itself and the picture

is very worrying: There are only 4

branches with over 20,000 members.

Only 4 with over 10,000 members. 8 with

over 5,000 members and there are 18

with 1,000 members and 9 with less than

300 members.

IPA Connect November 2026

The secrets behind

recruiting new members to

the IPA

In every discussion we held at the IPA

Management Academy, the topic of

recruiting new members to the IPA was

in first place. That is why it is important

to engage in international learning, to

learn from each other. There are

differences between the branches,

between the police forces, but we need

to learn how to reach young police

officers and how to provide a quality

technological infrastructure, because it

turns out that this is the secret to

recruiting new members.

Dr Eran Israel

IPA Israel

Events

49

IPA CONNECT NOVEMBER 2026 — Page 50

Kenya

th

On the 10 September 2026, at

Mwachisongo, in Gungombe,

Mwakirungu Sub Location, of Mombasa

County, the International Police

Association (IPA), Kenya Section, (Coast

Region), Mombasa, in a show of

community service, environmental

responsibility and international

friendship, took a meaningful step

towards protecting Kenya’s Indian

ocean coastline by planting 1,000

mangrove seedlings.

The initiative is part of the IPA Section

Kenya Coast Region’s commitment to

restoring and expanding mangrove

forests along the Kenyan coast.

Mangroves play an important role in

keeping our coastal environment

healthy. They provide breeding and

nursery grounds for marine life, protect

shorelines from erosion, support the

livelihoods of coastal communities and

help address climate change by storing

carbon.

The planting exercise brought together

IPA members, the Earthlung

Afforestation Foundation, local

IPA Connect November 2026

IPA Section Kenya Goes Green:

1,000 Mangrove Seedlings

Planted on the Coast

stakeholders and members of the

community, all working towards a

common goal. For the participants, it

was not about simply planting trees. It

was an opportunity to put the IPA

motto, “Service through Friendship,” into

action by giving back to the community

and helping protect the environment for

future generations.

While planting 1,000 seedlings is an

important achievement, it is only the

beginning. The real success of the

initiative will be measured by how

many of those seedlings survive and

grow into healthy mangrove forests. IPA

Section Kenya, Coast Region, therefore

plans to monitor the planted areas,

carry out follow-up planting and work

with partners and local communities to

ensure the seedlings are properly cared

for.

The long-term vision is to develop a

sustainable, multi-year mangrove

restoration programme that brings

together IPA members, communities,

government institutions, private-sector

partners and environmental

organisations.

50

IPA CONNECT NOVEMBER 2026 — Page 51

Kenya

IPA Section Kenya, Coast Region, also

welcomes partnerships, technical

expertise, resources and collaboration

from IPA sections around the world and

other organisations that share this

vision. With the right support and

continued commitment, this initiative

can grow from a single planting exercise

into a lasting conservation programme

for Kenya’s coastline.

IPA Connect November 2026

IPA Section Kenya Goes Green:

1,000 Mangrove Seedlings

Planted on the Coast

Every seedling planted today is an

investment in tomorrow. By working

together, we can help restore our

mangroves, strengthen coastal

communities and leave a healthier

coastline for generations to come.

1,000 seedlings planted. One shared

commitment. A greener coast for

generations to come.

By Col. Henry Nyambok, project lead,

and member IPA Section Kenya, Coast

Region.

51

IPA CONNECT NOVEMBER 2026 — Page 52

Lithuania

Four Officers, Two Countries,

One IPA Family

Building Bridges of Friendship Between

Switzerland and Lithuania

Two countries, four police officers and

one shared spirit of friendship.

Sometimes, the most meaningful

international connections begin with a

simple handshake, a warm smile and

the realisation that, despite different

languages, uniforms and policing

traditions, we share the same values.

This is exactly what happened during

the 2026 police officer exchange

programme between the Swiss and

Lithuanian Sections of the International

Police Association (IPA). What began as

an opportunity to exchange

professional knowledge and experience

became something much more

meaningful – an unforgettable

experience of friendship, mutual trust

and genuine international

camaraderie.

For the second consecutive year, both

IPA Sections have demonstrated that

the Association’s motto, “Servo per

Amikeco” – “Service Through

Friendship”, is much more than just

words.

IPA Connect November 2026

It is a philosophy that comes to life

whenever police officers meet as

colleagues and part as friends.

Switzerland: Professional Inspiration

and a Warm Welcome

From 14 to 20 September 2026,

Lithuanian police officers Jurgita

Juozaitytė and Grita Butkuvienė visited

Switzerland, where they gained valuable

professional experience by working

alongside police patrols in Bern,

observing the activities of the

specialised KROKU unit and learning

about Swiss policing methods. However,

what impressed them most was the

professionalism, genuine hospitality and

friendship of their Swiss colleagues,

which made them feel part of one big

IPA family.

Jurgita Juozaityte, Lithuania

“Participating in the exchange

programme in Switzerland was an

incredible experience, filled with positive

emotions and unforgettable moments.

Learning about Swiss policing,

particularly the joint emergency

operations centre, provided valuable

professional insights. I returned home

with new ideas, inspiration and

wonderful memories. Different countries,

different experiences, but one shared

mission – helping people and keeping

them safe.”

52

IPA CONNECT NOVEMBER 2026 — Page 53

Lithuania Cont

Four Officers, Two Countries,

One IPA Family

Grita Butkuviene, Lithuania

“Our week in Switzerland passed in the

blink of an eye, but the memories will

stay with us for a long time. In Bern, we

were welcomed like members of one

big family. Working alongside patrol

officers and the KROKU unit was both

fascinating and inspiring. Above all, we

were impressed by our colleagues’

professionalism, empathy and genuine

friendship. This experience reminded us

once again of the true spirit of IPA.”

Lithuania: Where Colleagues Become

Friends

From 22 to 27 September 2026, Swiss

police officers Rachel Josephine Meier

and Julian Luca Baier visited Lithuania,

where they explored police operations

in Vilnius, Anykščiai and Kaunas, joined

their Lithuanian colleagues on patrol

and attended the Police and

Community Celebration in

Marijampolė. Lithuanian hospitality,

warm personal connections and

genuine friendship transformed their

professional visit into an unforgettable

experience, bringing the IPA motto

“Servo per Amikeco” to life.

IPA Connect November 2026

Lithuanian Police and Community

Celebration – A Moment of

Togetherness

One of the highlights of the entire

exchange programme was the

opportunity for the Swiss officers to

attend the Lithuanian Police and

Community Celebration in Marijampolė.

The event brought together police

officers, their families and members of

the public in a celebration filled with

pride in the policing profession,

openness, smiles and a strong sense of

community spirit.

Rachel Josephine Meier, Switzerland

“It was a wonderful and unforgettable

week! We learned so much about

Lithuanian policing and discovered both

similarities and interesting differences

between our countries. Attending the

Police and Community Celebration in

Marijampolė was particularly impressive

– a tradition we could certainly learn

from. Thank you sincerely for your

kindness, hospitality and friendship. We

will never forget this experience.”

Julian Luca Baier, Switzerland

“A huge thank you for such a well-

organised, rewarding and valuable

programme! We were welcomed with

incredible warmth and sincerity.

Working alongside our Lithuanian

colleagues was both interesting and

inspiring. The hospitality, friendship and

wonderful experiences made this visit

truly special.” 53

IPA CONNECT NOVEMBER 2026 — Page 54

Lithuania Cont

Four Officers, Two Countries,

One IPA Family

More Than an Exchange – A Friendship

That Lasts

The exchange programme received

positive feedback from both

participants and police leadership,

once again highlighting the importance

of international cooperation. However,

its greatest value lies not only in the

professional knowledge gained, but

also in the friendships formed, the trust

strengthened and the unforgettable

memories created.

For Jurgita, Grita, Rachel and Julian, this

experience demonstrated that police

officers from different countries share

the same calling – to serve people and

protect their communities. This is where

the true strength of IPA lies: bringing

people together across national

borders.

We sincerely thank the IPA Sections of

Switzerland and Lithuania, the

programme organisers, our colleagues

and the Lithuanian police leadership for

their support, hospitality and friendship.

We believe this initiative will inspire

future meetings and even stronger

international bonds.

Because the most important thing we

bring home from an IPA exchange is

knowing that somewhere beyond our

country’s borders, we now have friends.

Four officers. Two countries. One IPA

family.

IPA Connect November 2026

Servo per Amikeco – Service Through

Friendship!

Authors: IPA Lithuanian Section, in

cooperation with the exchange

programme participants.

54

IPA CONNECT NOVEMBER 2026 — Page 55

New Zealand

IPA New Zealand Launches Virtual Run Club

IPA New Zealand has launched a Virtual Run Club, providing members with a fun and

flexible way to stay active, connect with fellow IPA members and take part in activities

together, wherever they are around the world.

The initiative uses Strava to bring members together, allowing participants to record

and share their runs, encourage one another and become part of a growing virtual

community. Whether you are an experienced runner or simply looking for some extra

motivation to get moving, the Virtual Run Club offers an opportunity to get involved at

your own pace.

It is another great example of how IPA Sections are using new ideas and digital

platforms to encourage friendship, wellbeing and participation among members.

IPA New Zealand welcomes members to join the club and take part in this new

initiative.

Join the IPA New Zealand Virtual Run Club on Strava:

IPA New Zealand Virtual Run Club

IPA New Zealand

IPA Connect November 2026 55

IPA CONNECT NOVEMBER 2026 — Page 56

Portugal

Portugal, September 21 to 25, 2026, the

Faro District (Algarve) hosted the 10th

edition of the international exercise

MineTEx 2026. Organized by the EIEXSS

unit of the UEP/Faro Detached Force,

the event featured close collaboration

with the IPA-Portugal Southern

Delegation and support from the

Explosive Ordnance Disposal and

Underground Safety Center (CIEXSS) of

the PSP’s Special Police Unit. This high-

level operational gathering brought

together highly qualified specialists

from various agencies, including

personnel from the PSP’s CIEXSS, the Air

Force, the Army, the GNR, and Spain’s

National Police Corps (Cuerpo Nacional

de Policía).

IPA Connect November 2026

MineTEx 2026

Over the course of five days, EOD

(Explosive Ordnance Disposal) experts

shared tactics, protocols, and

operational best practices, thereby

strengthening interoperability and joint

response capabilities in the face

of complex security scenarios.

Ongoing cooperation and knowledge

sharing are essential to ensuring

safety and protection for all.

Servo Per Amikeco

Fernando Palma

President of the Southern Delegation

of the Portuguese Section

56

IPA CONNECT NOVEMBER 2026 — Page 57

Romania

From 2–5 September 2026, Sibiu,

Romania, hosted the second edition of

the international conference “SheisIPA –

The Role of Women in IPA: Trends and

Challenges”, bringing together female

police officers and IPA members from

nine countries across two continents:

Cyprus, Israel, North Macedonia, the

Netherlands, Canada, Greece, Sweden,

the Republic of Moldova and Romania.

Coordinated by Marius Mureșan, Vice

President of IPA Romania, the four-day

event provided an international platform

for participants to exchange

professional experiences, share best

practices and strengthen cooperation,

while exploring the evolving role of

women in law enforcement and civil

society.

The conference was honoured by the

participation of Mihai Liviu Tărtăreanu,

President of IPA Romania, and Kikis

Perikleous, Treasurer Finances,

International Police Association,

IPA Connect November 2026

Sibiu becomes the capital of

women’s solidarity in policing

whose presence highlighted the

importance of the SheisIPA initiative

and its contribution to strengthening

international cooperation within IPA.

An Agenda Beyond the Uniform

The conference went beyond traditional

professional perspectives, addressing

topics such as leadership, digital

security, resilience, empathy and

community engagement.

Representing the Sibiu County Police

Inspectorate, Police Commissary

Mihaela Huzoaica, coordinator of the

Crime Analysis and Prevention Unit and

Vice President of IPA Region 1 Sibiu,

together with retired Colonel Răducu

Magda, member of the SheisIPA project,

ensured the dynamic flow of discussions

in their roles as moderators and

speakers.

The conference also welcomed guest

speakers from other strategic fields.

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IPA CONNECT NOVEMBER 2026 — Page 58

Romania Cont

Sibiu becomes the capital of

women’s solidarity in policing

Orșolia Bako, Vice President of

Women4Cyber Romania, presented

“Leadership and the Digital Frontier”,

highlighting the importance of

adaptability, digital skills and women's

preparedness in an increasingly

connected world facing continuous

cyber threats.

Dr. Rafaela Coca, Medical Oncology

Specialist, addressed “Resilience and

the Human Side of Care”, focusing on

stress management, empathy and the

human dimension of professions

dedicated to supporting people during

difficult moments.

Cătălina Costache, Executive Director of

the Polisano Foundation, presented

“Community Impact and Building

Lasting Change”, emphasizing civic

responsibility and the power of

sustained community initiatives to

create meaningful social

transformation.

IPA Connect November 2026

Building Bridges Through Cooperation

The discussions in Sibiu highlighted a

broader understanding of modern

leadership—one based not only on

professional authority, but also on

courage, empathy, adaptability and the

ability to inspire positive change.

The second edition of SheisIPA

demonstrated once again that bringing

women together across borders,

cultures and professional systems

creates opportunities for learning,

cooperation and mutual support. The

connections established in Sibiu

represent an important step towards a

stronger international community within

IPA, where diversity becomes a source of

strength and shared experience can

inspire lasting change.

Because change begins with each of us,

but becomes stronger when we build it

together.

Servo per Amikeco!

Marius Mureșan, Vicepresident of IPA

ROMANIA

58

IPA CONNECT NOVEMBER 2026 — Page 59

Spain

IPA Extremadura brought 63 works

by artist José Manuel Otero to the

Civil Guard Headquarters in

Badajoz during a magical night

that drew over 110,000 people.

There are nights when Badajoz

transforms. It ceases to be merely a city

and becomes a stage. This happens

every first Saturday of September, as

dusk falls and *La Noche en Blanco*

(The White Night) begins. Monuments

that usually slumber behind closed

doors open their eyes. Museums,

churches, theaters, and palaces light up.

The streets are filled with families, young

people, children with flashlights, and

older adults rediscovering their city.

This year, on September 5th, more than

110,000 souls ventured out to experience

it. There were over 150 offerings—music,

theater, dance, workshops, and video

mapping they turned the historic center

into a celebration of culture.

And at the heart of that map lay a

building that simply had to be included:

the Civil Guard barracks housed in the

former Convent of Santo Domingo. Its

cloistered courtyard, built of centuries-

old stone, once again became an open

barracks.

IPA Connect November 2026

“BETWEEN SHADOWS AND

OLIVE GREEN”

Art Paying Tribute to the Civil

Guard Captivates Badajoz’s

“White Night”

There, as happens every year, units such

as Nature Protection Service SEPRONA,

Traffic Unit, Public Safety, and the

Special Underwater Activities Group,

GEAS showcased their equipment and

daily work right among the public.

But this year, there was something

different. Something more intimate.

A gesture of respect.

In the assembly hall, sixty-three pairs of

eyes silently watched us from the wall.

Sixty-three drawings—in pencil,

charcoal, and color. Sixty-three Civil

Guards. Women and men, past and

present, from every specialty, rendered

with a precision so lifelike it was almost

painful to behold.

It was “Entre sombras y verde oliva”

("Between Shadows and Olive Green"),

the collection by artist and IPA

Extremadura associate member José

Manuel Otero.

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IPA CONNECT NOVEMBER 2026 — Page 60

Spain Cont

Otero does not draw uniforms; he draws

vocation. In every stroke, there are hours

of research, a respect for detail—the

sheen of a cap, the crease of a service

coat, the tension of a mountain rescue—

and, above all, humanity. His work is a

quiet tribute to a 181-year-old institution

that lives in close connection with the

public.

The public understood this. For five days,

there was a steady stream of visitors

who wandered in out of curiosity and

stayed for a long time, pointing things

out: "Look, that one is from the Traffic

Division, like my father," or "That’s a

colleague." No one remained indifferent.

A closing ceremony with honors.

The exhibition concluded on September

10th with a very special guided tour.

José Manuel Otero himself,

accompanied by his wife, acted as

guide for the officials who came to show

their support:

The Government Delegate in

Extremadura Region, the Sub-delegate

of the Government in Badajoz province,

the Brigadier General commanding the

Extremadura Zone,

IPA Connect November 2026

“BETWEEN SHADOWS AND

OLIVE GREEN”

Art Paying Tribute to the Civil

Guard Captivates Badajoz’s

“White Night”

the Lieutenant Colonel commanding the

Badajoz Command, the Head of the

Badajoz Operational Unit of Customs

Surveillance, and yours truly—the

President of IPA Extremadura.

To top it all off, a portrait created

specifically for the occasion was

presented to the General Commanding

the Zone. It was a moving moment that

encapsulates the spirit of the IPA: *Servo

per Amikeco*—Serving through

friendship.

Thank you, and… to be continued.

We at IPA Extremadura would like to

express our gratitude: to the Badajoz

Command for opening their home to us

—a place that represents a living part of

the city's history; to the Badajoz City

Council’s Department of Culture for

their indispensable logistical support in

providing the easels; and, of course, to

José Manuel Otero and his wife for their

generosity and warmth, and for leaving

a piece of their art here in Extremadura.

60

IPA CONNECT NOVEMBER 2026 — Page 61

Spain Cont

“BETWEEN SHADOWS AND

OLIVE GREEN”

We hope to have given something back

to you by showcasing our land, our

cuisine, and the character of our people

—both from Badajoz and our Portuguese

neighbors. We believe you left delighted.

It doesn’t end here. “Entre sombras y

verde oliva” (Between Shadows and

Olive Green) is a traveling exhibition

driven by a spirit of service, much like

the Civil Guard itself. We are already

working to bring it to the Cáceres

Command and the Mérida and

Plasencia Companies, with a very

special stop at the Mérida Traffic School

featuring a brand-new series dedicated

to the Traffic Group.

Because some tributes deserve to be

seen time and time again.

En Badajoz, a 27 de septiembre de 2026.

Fdo. Antonio J. Cabello Garay

PRESIDENTE IPA EXTREMADURA

IPA Connect November 2026

World Police & Fire

Games, Perth

Australia 2027

You’re invited to the World Police &

Fire Games, the world’s largest

multisport event for active,

volunteer and retired law

enforcement and emergency

services personnel. Join 8,500

athletes of all skill levels standing

Shoulder to Shoulder, on and off

the field.

12–21 March 2027

Police officers, police auxiliary

officers and police staff are eligible

to compete and volunteer.

61

IPA CONNECT NOVEMBER 2026 — Page 62

Spain

UMEDULA BADAJOZ 2026

The Military Emergency Unit (UME)

organized a campaign to promote bone

marrow donation through sporting

activities in eleven cities across Spain.

All UME units stationed throughout the

country organize a series of sporting

events involving soldiers from the Unit,

the Armed Forces, security forces and

agencies, public administration, and

emergency services.

World Bone Marrow Donor Day is

observed annually on the third Saturday

of September.

Coinciding with this date, various

solidarity initiatives take place during

the preceding week in the following

cities: Huelva, Seville, Cartagena,

Valencia, Palma de Mallorca, Zaragoza,

León, Barcelona, San Cristóbal de la

Laguna, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria,

and Badajoz—with the latter being the

first city to organize the event in

Extremadura.

IPA Connect November 2026

UMEdula is a solidarity initiative by the

UME aimed at promoting bone marrow

donation through sports activities,

primarily stationary bike relay events.

Beyond active participation, it seeks to

raise public awareness about the

importance of this gesture.

This campaign is carried out in

coordination with the National

Transplant Organization (ONT) and the

Extremadura Blood and Tissue Bank

and also enjoys the support of various

institutions and companies.

Information stations are set up at each

location where attendees can learn

more about what becoming a bone

marrow donor entail, alongside

collection centers for those who decide

to donate.

IPA Extremadura participated with a

team of 50 people, including members,

family, friends, and supporters. The

activity involved stationery cycling in

30-minute relay shifts.

In Badajoz, the event took place at the

Paseo de San Francisco on September

16, running from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

IPA Extremadura was assigned the 8:30

p.m. to 9:00 p.m. time slot; as the last of

the 24 registered teams to participate,

we brought the charity event to a close.

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IPA CONNECT NOVEMBER 2026 — Page 63

Spain Cont

UMEDULA BADAJOZ 2026

The initiative reflects the corporate

social responsibility of the UME and the

participating groups. It originated in

2014, when Corporal Abraham Trigo

launched the "Mediterranean Challenge"

charity project to raise funds for the fight

against cancer.

Following his cancer diagnosis, the BIEM I

(First Emergency Intervention Battalion)

organized the first 48-hour stationary

cycling event in 2018 under the name

"Proyecto UMEdula."

Since 2023, the UME has extended this

spirit of solidarity across the entire

country, involving all its battalions.

Spain stands out for its solidarity

regarding organ donation.

Last year, more than 3,800 bone marrow

transplants were performed, and the

Spanish Bone Marrow Donor Registry

surpassed 520,000 donors, doubling the

rate.

IPA Connect November 2026

Even so, greater awareness is needed:

the probability of finding a compatible

donor is 1 in 3,500. Increasing the

number of donors is crucial to improving

patients' chances of success.

Diseases such as leukemia, lymphoma,

or immunodeficiencies may require a

bone marrow transplant, which involves

replacing diseased cells with healthy

cells from a donor.

To become a donor, one must be

between 18 and 40 years old and free of

transmissible diseases or other

conditions that would put the donor at

risk. Once registered, the donor remains

in the database until the age of 60.

Eleven members of the IPA Extremadura

team became new donors. Across the

entire event in Badajoz, 333 people

signed up as new donors, bringing the

total number of new bone marrow donor

registrations for the 2026 edition of

UMEdula—across the 11 Spanish

municipalities involved—to 1,723.

The IPA Extremadura team members

received a custom-designed, all-over

print T-shirt as a memento of their

participation, while also enjoying a fun,

entertaining, and community-spirited

experience.

IPA Extremadura presented a

commemorative plaque to the Military

Emergency Unit (UME) to mark their visit

to the region and acknowledge their

dedication to society, recognizing that

their commitment saves lives.

Fdo. Antonio J. Cabello Garay

PRESIDENTE IPA EXTREMADURA

IPA SPAIN

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IPA CONNECT NOVEMBER 2026 — Page 64

Sri Lanka

To mark World Children’s Day, IPA Sri

Lanka organised a special ceremony at

Police Headquarters, celebrating the

achievements, creativity and potential

of children within the IPA and police

family.

The event recognised children who

successfully passed the Grade 5

Scholarship Examination, an important

milestone in the Sri Lankan education

system, as well as the talented young

artists who participated in the IPA

Children’s Painting Competition.

Gift packs were presented to the

successful scholarship students in

recognition of their hard work,

dedication and academic

achievement.

IPA Connect November 2026

Celebrating Young

Talent and Achievement:

IPA Sri Lanka Marks

World Children’s Day

The children’s success was celebrated

as an example of the importance of

encouraging and supporting young

people in their educational journey.

The ceremony also provided an

opportunity to recognise the winners of

the IPA Children’s Painting Competition.

Through their artwork, the children were

able to express their creativity and

share their own perspectives,

demonstrating the imagination and

talent of the younger generation.

64

IPA CONNECT NOVEMBER 2026 — Page 65

Sri Lanka

Celebrating Young Talent

and Achievement: IPA Sri

Lanka Marks World

Children’s Day

Events such as this demonstrate the

important role that the International

Police Association can play in

supporting not only its members, but

also their families and communities. By

creating opportunities for children to be

recognised, encouraged and

celebrated, IPA Sri Lanka continues to

strengthen the friendships and

connections that are at the heart of the

Association.

IPA Connect November 2026

World Children’s Day is an

opportunity to celebrate children

and promote their rights, wellbeing

and opportunities for the future. For

IPA Sri Lanka, the occasion provided

a meaningful opportunity to place

children at the centre of the

celebration and recognise their

achievements.

The International Police Association

congratulates all of the scholarship

recipients and painting competition

winners and wishes them continued

success in their education and future

endeavours.

Sunethra Senevirathne

IPA Sri Lanka

Secretary General

65

IPA CONNECT NOVEMBER 2026 — Page 66

United Kingdom

If you have ever wondered whether

your IPA membership is worth it, my

recent family holiday to Los Angeles

may help provide the answer.

We travelled to the west coast of the

USA in July and spent an absolutely

jam-packed week visiting as much of

Los Angeles as we could, while

squeezing in some IPA visits along the

way. The kids were keen to visit Warner

Bros. Studios, Universal Studios and

Disneyland. Ruth was keen to visit the

ocean, and I managed to convince

everyone that visiting a police station

would be cool and not feel like work at

all!

I submitted an IPA travel form just five

weeks before departure and, within a

week, was introduced to John Prins, a

host from the US Section, Region 6. John

shared his knowledge of the city and

organised a visit to Torrance Police

Department. He also introduced me to

recently retired Los Angeles County

Sheriff's Department Detective Dave

Mertens, who went far beyond anything

we could have expected.

IPA Connect November 2026

Los Angeles and the IPA

Dave took a couple of hours off work

on the day we flew in, picked us up

from the airport, showed us around

some of the sights of Los Angeles,

including Griffith Observatory, and

shared a meal with us at In-N-Out

Burger. He then dropped us off at our

hotel.

The following day, we were up early

and headed to Universal Studios. By

early afternoon we had finished at

the park and returned to the hotel.

Dave had arranged a visit to his

shooting range, a public range where

he is a member.

Once again, his hospitality and

generosity were outstanding. He

picked us up from the hotel, invited

us into his home for refreshments

where we exchanged police gifts,

and then took us to the range.

It was exactly like the gun ranges we

see in classic movies. It felt slightly

surreal, but it was a real experience

of American culture. In order for me

to supervise one of the shooting

lanes, I needed to demonstrate safe

weapon handling. I was ready for this

and was asked to demonstrate with

one of the Glocks from the display

cabinet.

66

IPA CONNECT NOVEMBER 2026 — Page 67

United Kingdom

Cont

As I went through the assessment, my

daughter piped up and said, "Wouldn't it

be funny if Dad failed?"

Dave was quick to tell the range staff

that I was a firearms instructor, but only

after I had passed the test.

It was brilliant to have the opportunity

to shoot with my family in an

environment that is so familiar to me

professionally. They would never get

this opportunity in the UK, and I really

enjoyed coaching them. It turns out the

ladies in my family are very

comfortable with firearms and are

naturally excellent shots.

After shooting, Dave took us to his

favourite Korean BBQ restaurant, where

we spent the evening chatting about

policing, the similarities in the issues we

deal with, and the differences in our

approaches.

IPA Connect November 2026

Los Angeles and the IPA

Dave was an incredible host, and I

cannot thank him enough for his

kindness and generosity in making

both me and my family feel so

welcome.

Later in the week, we visited Torrance

Police Department and were

welcomed by John, who showed us

around and introduced us to a

variety of units, including the control

room, the command suite where they

manage their fixed-site drone

operations, the forensic laboratory,

the detectives' office and the SWAT

garage.

But perhaps the most enjoyable part

was another visit to the range, where

we met Jay, their firearms instructor.

We had the chance to do some more

shooting, talk about firearms, tactics

and training, and generally "swing

the lamp" a little.

Before we travelled, my wife joked,

"Don't make this holiday too policey!"

By the end of the trip, she told me

that meeting new friends and

experiencing opportunities that

would only have been possible

through the IPA were among the

highlights of our holiday.

The IPA motto is Servo per Amikeco -

Service Through Friendship. After this

trip, those words feel like much more

than a motto. They perfectly capture

the generosity, friendship and

hospitality that made our family's Los

Angeles adventure so memorable."

Liam Busby - IPA UK

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IPA CONNECT NOVEMBER 2026 — Page 68

United Kingdom

Building Bridges Through

Dialogue: International

Crisis Negotiation at

Gimborn 2026

The spirit of international friendship and

professional learning was clearly

demonstrated during the 2026 IPA

seminar Negotiations in Crisis

Situations: The Role of the Police held at

the International Conference Centre at

Gimborn Castle, Germany. Directed by

Chief Superintendent Louis Provart of

Norfolk Constabulary, the programme

was delivered by an instructional team

comprising experienced negotiators

and trainers from Norfolk, Suffolk and

Cambridgeshire in the United Kingdom.

Over four days, delegates from Kenya,

the Netherlands, Lithuania, Peru,

Pakistan, Germany, Ireland, Romania,

Cyprus and Australia came together to

explore one of the most challenging

disciplines in modern policing: crisis

and hostage negotiation.

IPA Connect November 2026

The seminar focused on the human

dimension of policing and the role

communication plays during incidents

involving vulnerability, conflict and risk.

Delegates examined negotiation

principles, active listening, team

dynamics, incident assessment and

practical approaches to resolving

critical incidents peacefully. One of the

greatest strengths of the programme

was the international diversity of

participants. Delegates openly shared

experiences from their own police

services and communities, creating

rich discussions around operational

practice, legislation, culture and

decision-making. Despite coming from

different parts of the world, participants

found many common challenges and

opportunities for shared learning.

Through practical exercises and

collaborative problem-solving,

delegates developed new skills whilst

building lasting professional

relationships.

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IPA CONNECT NOVEMBER 2026 — Page 69

United Kingdom

Cont

The programme demonstrated that

while policing structures and legislation

may differ, the principles of empathy,

communication, professionalism and

the preservation of life remain universal.

Beyond the classroom, the seminar

provided an opportunity for

participants to experience the unique

environment of Gimborn while

strengthening international networks

that may prove valuable in future

collaborations.Chief Superintendent

Louis Provart reflected on the

programme: "The true strength of

Gimborn lies in bringing together

people with different experiences but a

common purpose.

IPA Connect November 2026

Building Bridges Through

Dialogue: International

Crisis Negotiation at

Gimborn 2026

Every delegate contributes a unique

perspective, and everyone leaves with a

broader understanding of how

communication can save lives and

reduce harm." The seminar once again

demonstrated the enduring value of IPA

education and international

cooperation. Through the exchange of

knowledge, experience and friendship,

participants embodied the IPA motto:

Servo per Amikeco – Service Through

Friendship.

Lou Provart

IPA UK

69

IPA CONNECT NOVEMBER 2026 — Page 70

United Kingdom

National Clay

Shooting Competition

Cambridge Gun Club was the venue for

this year’s National Clay Shooting

competition, which was held on

th

Saturday 19 September.

The event attracted 15 participants with

members travelling from as far away as

South Wales. 10 Region was particularly

well represented, fielding no less than 7

participants.

The coaches for the day were our very

own Clive Wood, a member of the

International Executive Board and a

keen clay shooter, along with Julian and

Kev. Julian is the gun shop manager for

the event sponsors, Giles Marriott Ltd, in

Threddingworth, Leicestershire. Kev is a

Firearms Enquiry Officer with

Leicestershire Police.

The weather in mid-September is never

predictable and after the requisite

safety briefing the participants split into

three groups and had their first

opportunity to get to grips with the

blustery conditions with 20 practice

shots. This year all but one of the

participants had some shooting

experience but everyone found the

windy conditions challenging!

IPA Connect November 2026

After a hearty lunch and with the wind

easing off slightly, participants returned

to the stands and things got serious for

the competition proper.

The competition comprised 10 clays

from each of the three stands, one of

which the participants hadn’t shot from

during the warm up. Whizzing off at up

60kph the clays offered a range of

targets such as driven, teal, battues,

crossers, incomers, quartering, loopers

and rabbits.

Congratulations to the winners who

placed as follows: 1st – Paul Oldnall, 2nd

– Barry Deeks and 3rd – Kevin Langford.

Paul won a new Beretta shooting jacket

and bottle of whisky but everyone went

home with a memento of the day.

It really was a great day out for

members, family and friends with one

participant remarking, “£60 for a day’s

shooting is fantastic value and

spending the day shooting with other

IPA members just added to the

enjoyment.”

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IPA CONNECT NOVEMBER 2026 — Page 71

United Kingdom Events

Cont

National Clay

Shooting Competition

Huge thanks to Julian and Kev for giving

up their time but also for their good

humour, patience and excellent

coaching throughout the day. Thanks

too to Stu Anderson from

Cambridgeshire Branch who also helped

the day go smoothly.

IPA Section UK and the event organisers

would like to thank the our sponsors,

Giles Marriott Ltd of Leicestershire. The

company provided shotguns free of

charge, shotgun cartridges at cost and

prizes which included a Beretta shooting

jacket and a shotgun slip case.

The annual clay shoot is one of several

National iconic events that attract

funding from IPA HQ, making what would

otherwise be an expensive day very

affordable.

Steve Bretherton

IPA UK

IPA Connect November 2026 71

IPA CONNECT NOVEMBER 2026 — Page 72

Upcoming Events

IPA Kenya 2nd IPA International

Investigations Seminar

2nd IPA International Investigations Seminar

takes place in Nairobi, Kenya, from 1–7

November 2026, bringing together

investigators and law enforcement

professionals for international knowledge

exchange, professional development and

training.

More Information

IPA Cyprus National

Congress 2026

The IPA Cyprus Section is delighted to invite

IPA members from around the world to

attend its 43rd National Congress, taking

place from 5–8 November 2026 in the

beautiful Famagusta region of Protaras /

Agia Napa, Cyprus.

More Information

IPA Connect November 2026

IPA Spain Caribbean

Experience 2026

CARIBBEAN IPA EXPERIENCE 2026 offers an

unforgettable international IPA adventure

combining a 5★ all-inclusive stay in Punta

Cana and a Caribbean cruise from 2–14

December 2026.

More Information

IPA Salzburg, Austria – 65th

Anniversary

65 Years of IPA Salzburg celebrates the

Regional Group’s anniversary with a festive

weekend of culture, music, Christmas

traditions and IPA friendship in Salzburg,

Austria, from 4–6 December 2026.

More Information

72

IPA CONNECT NOVEMBER 2026 — Page 73

Upcoming Events

The Art Of Expression

Join us for an immersive three-day seminar

where amateurs and enthusiasts can dive

into the storytelling, painting, and

photography 4-7 December 2026

More Information

Blue Light Ride

On Wednesday the 9th of December

2026, the fifth edition of the IPA Blue Light

Ride will take place. This wonderful event

is organised by the Dutch IPA district

Limburg-Noord.

More Information

IPA Connect November 2026

View all events on our website:

https://ipa-international.org/events/

Note: The deadline for registration for

some events may have passed

International 7-a-side Football

Tournament

IPA Spain, invites all IPA National Sections to

participate in the Third International 7-a-

side Football Tournament for Police Officers,

9-13 December 2026

More Information

International IPA Kohltour 2027 –

Bremen,Germany

IPA Bremen warmly invites all IPA members

to take part in the next International IPA

Kohltour, taking place from 29–31 January

2027 in Bremen, Germany.

More Information

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IPA CONNECT NOVEMBER 2026 — Page 74

Gimborn Seminars

IBZ Gimborn is the International Police

Association’s international education

and conference centre, providing a wide

range of professional seminars, training

courses and networking opportunities

for law enforcement professionals from

around the world. Through its diverse

programme, IBZ Gimborn supports

lifelong learning, international

cooperation and the exchange of

knowledge, all in the spirit of Servo per

Amikeco.

The latest programme of seminars and

events offers members a variety of

opportunities for professional

development, learning and international

exchange. Explore the link below to

discover the 2026 seminar programme

and find a learning opportunity that

interests you..

2026 Seminar Programme

2027 Seminar Programme

IPA Connect November 2026

2027 Seminar Programme

is here !

The 2027 IBZ Gimborn programme has

officially been announced!

Take a look and start planning your next

learning opportunity. We look forward to

another year of inspiring seminars, new

knowledge and international

connections at IBZ Gimborn.

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IPA CONNECT NOVEMBER 2026 — Page 75

NOVEMBER

IPA

2026

CONNECT

WWW.IPA-INTERNATIONAL.ORG

Sponsored by:

Scan the QR code and

follow us on social

media

International Administration Centre (IAC)

1 Fox Road

West Bridgford

Nottingham

NG2 6AJ

iac@ieb-ipa.org

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