IPA Connect October 2026

IPA Connect October 2026 — Page 1

International

Police

Association

IPAC

International President Visits IPA Kazakhstan

International President Martin Hoffmann’s recent visit to Kazakhstan br

IPA representatives and senior officials

strengthen international cooperation. Read more on page 43.

Read more about the Young Police Officer’s

(YPOS) recently held in Germany, along with articles from

participants in Japan and New Zealand sharing

experiences and highlights.

Head to page 15, 41 and 48.

PoliceMenU is a Socio-Cultural Commission Arts & Culture

initiative celebrating the culinary traditions of IPA members

around the

discover traditional

cultures. Read more about this exciting project and explore

the latest recipes on pages 18 and 28.

October 2026

NNECT

ought together

to discuss the Association’s future and

Seminar

their

world, giving members the opportunity to

recipes from different countries and

1

IPA Connect October 2026 — Page 2

IPAC NNECT

Index Page

Foreword

Foreword: Treasurer Finances

04 Kyriakos Perikleous

International Projects

Professional Commission

Arthur Troop Scholarship (ATS)

06 Investing in the Future of the

Police Community

Education

08 ON PATROL – Bringing International

Policing Together

#SHEisIPA

11 Building Bridges for the Future of

Policing

Young Members

14 YPOS 2026 – Giving the Next

Generation a Voice

Socio-Cultural Commission

Arts & Culture

17 PolicemenU – A Taste That

Brings Police Officers Together

Around the World

Green IPA

19 Tree of friendship for a

greener future - Sections

Croatia and Slovenia planted

a tree of friendship together

WWW.IPA-INTERNATIONAL.ORG

01/10

OCTOBER

2026

Sports

21 IPA Games – More Than a Sporting

Event

International News & Highlights

23 Could Your Section Host the Next

IPA Games?

Travel

24 A journey through friendship,

between Casas IPA, history and the

sea

International News & Highlights

27 PolicemenU : Fërgesë - Albania

International Relations Commission

International Relations

Commission

28

Collaboration is at the heart of

international policing

Marketing

IPA Marketing

The IPA Website – Connecting Our

30

International Association

International News & Highlights

32 69th IPA World Congress 2026

Colombo, Sri Lanka

2

IPA Connect October 2026 — Page 3

IPA CONNECT

Index Page

Section Updates

International News & Highlights

33 IPA House : Arresøhus Denmark

Bosnia & Herzegovina

34 IPA meetings in Sarajevo

Iceland

Tactical breaching

36

Selfoss, Sept 8. – 9th, 2026

Ireland

#SHEISIPA Hiking Weekend

38

th th

July 17 to 19 July 2026

Japan

Participating in the Young Police

40

Officers' Seminar (YPOS) 2026

Kazakhstan

International President Visits IPA

42

Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan

Supporting the Next Generation

44

of Police Officers

New Zealand

45

Japan to Canada!

New Zealand

47 YPOS Germany

Pakistan

One Journey, Many Friendships -

49

IPA Friendship Beyond Borders

WWW.IPA-INTERNATIONAL.ORG

01/10

OCTOBER

2026

South Africa

51 International Police

Association South African

National Women’s Day

Celebration

Ukraine

55 Ukrainian Section of the

International Police

Association Enters a New

Stage of Development

Ukraine

Service Through Friendship: The

58

Ukrainian and American Sections

of IPA Develop Cooperation

International News & Highlights

59 BLUE WALKS – PINK CAUSE

Upcoming Events

Upcoming Events

60 Register Today

Gimborn Seminars

Gimborn Seminars

62 View 2026 Seminar Programme

3

IPA Connect October 2026 — Page 4

Foreword

Dear IPA Members and Friends,

I am glad to be writing today in our magazine

under its new name, IPA CONNECT. This is exactly

what we all need to keep in mind: that

connects and does not divide. Only in this way will

we be able to face whatever comes our way.

The situations that the global scene

experiencing should not divide us, but bring us

closer together and make SERVO PER AMIKECO

even stronger.

Friendly competition for the common good is a

wonderful thing. However, striving solely

personal advancement or individual gain when

we are part of a collective serves no one's best

interests.

We are the world’s largest police association and

a global voluntary organisation, but more than

that, we are friendship and beautiful relationships

that are not based on political or religious beliefs,

nor on colour, language or nationality — we are

one soul of more than 380,000 people.

The IPA family has begun to grow once again,

both in terms of member countries and

number of members. This is due to the excellent

work being done at both the national

international levels. The opportunities and grants

we now provide to our members to participate in

international seminars and other events

strengthen connections, support personal

professional development, and contribute to the

continued growth of our organisation.

Furthermore, many Sections have

organising a large number of National events, with

high numbers of members participating.

events always receive the support of the IEB.

It has been almost two years since I was elected

to the IEB as Treasurer Finances, and I feel proud

to have this role and to be working alongside my

friend JP, the Treasurer Social Affairs, collaborating

with all of you and giving our very best, within the

limits of our capabilities, to all National Sections.

IPA

is

for

the

and

help

and

begun

These

4

IPA Connect October 2026 — Page 5

Project Title

We always rely on your support to successfully complete the

task you have entrusted to us.

We will continue to support everything backed and funded by

the International Funds, always with your agreement and

approval. We remain at your disposal for new ideas and for any

support that may be required.

In a few days, the WC 2026 will take place in Sri Lanka. I wish all

delegates, observers and visitors a safe journey there, and I

hope for a successful and productive Congress for the good of

the IPA.

I want to conclude with something that has always been a

guiding principle for me:

“Coming together is a beginning, staying together is progress,

and working together is success.”

(Henry Ford)

Kikis Perikelous - Treasurer Finances

5

IPA Connect October 2026 — Page 6

Promoted by the International Police

Association, the scholarship offers law

enforcement officers worldwide the

opportunity to access advanced training

and international exchange.

In an ever-evolving global landscape, the

challenges surrounding security, cross-

border cooperation, and public order

management demand increasingly

qualified, up-to-date professionals

equipped with a strong international vision.

Guided by this principle, the International

Police Association (IPA) honours the moral

and cultural legacy of its founder by

awarding the Arthur Troop Scholarship

(ATS) each year.

Far from being a mere financial aid

measure, the ATS Scholarship serves as a

true fund for professional excellence and

growth, designed for active association

members serving in police forces across

the globe. This initiative fully embodies the

founding motto of the IPA: "Servo per

Amikeco" (Service through Friendship).

IPA Connect , October 2026

Investing in the Future of

the Police Community:

The Arthur Troop

Scholarship (ATS)

Arthur Troop's Legacy and Purpose of

the Programme

Established in memory of Arthur Troop—

the British police sergeant who founded

the association in 1950 to unite police

colleagues across geographical and

political boundaries—the scholarship

aims to encourage professional

development and continuous learning

among young officers.

The scholarship draws from an annual

overall budget established by the

International Executive Board of the IPA,

awarding each recipient financial

support up to a maximum of €2,500. This

sum covers registration fees, travel, and

accommodation expenses for attending

international professional development

courses, seminars, conferences, or

symposia.

Among the most sought-after

destinations for recipients is the

renowned IBZ Schloss Gimborn in

Germany, the IPA's flagship educational

centre. Every year, experts from around

the world gather there to address critical

topics such as cybercrime prevention,

advanced investigative techniques,

police leadership, and emergency

management.

Target Audience and Eligibility

Requirements

Unlike traditional educational grants

intended for dependents, the Arthur

Troop Scholarship is aimed directly at

serving police officers.

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IPA Connect October 2026 — Page 7

To submit an application, prospective

candidates must fulfill specific eligibility

criteria:

IPA Membership: Hold an active

membership in the International Police

Association for at least 3 continuous

years at the time of application.

Active Status: Be actively employed in a

police service or law enforcement

agency in their respective country.

Focus on Young Officers: While open to

all members who meet the tenure

requirement, special consideration

during selection is given to younger

colleagues or those in the early stages

of their career to foster specialised

training.

Application Structure and the Role of

Motivation

The selection process for the scholarship

relies on a thorough merit-based

evaluation conducted by an

international panel (Temporary

Commission).

Unlike other contributions based on

income, the ATS focuses entirely on the

value and coherence of the candidate's

proposed educational project::

Course/Seminar Plan: Candidates must

clearly identify the training event or

course they wish to attend, specifying its

practical utility for their career and their

service in their home country.

Motivational Essay: A key component of

the application involves explaining how

attending the program will benefit not

only the candidate's individual career,

but also their National Section of the IPA

and the wider police community.

IPA Connect , October 2026

Budget Estimate: Applications must

include an estimated budget detailing

expected costs for tuition, board,

lodging, and travel.

Application Process and Timeline

To ensure fairness and consistency

worldwide, the call for applications

follows a fixed annual timeline:

Application Window and Deadline:

Applications open annually and close

on March 31st for scholarships awarded

for the following calendar year.

Submission Channel: Applications are

submitted digitally through the official

IPA international website (ipa-

international.org) and must be verified

and endorsed by the applicant's

National Section.

Announcement of Winners: The official

selection and announcement of

awardees take place during the IPA

World Congress.

Knowledge Sharing: Upon completing

the chosen seminar or course,

recipients are required to write a

detailed report detailing the skills

acquired, accompanied by

photographs, for publication across

official association channels to share

knowledge with all members.

A Unique Opportunity to Strengthen

the Global Law Enforcement Network

Applying for the Arthur Troop

Scholarship means more than

receiving financial support for training

—it offers entry into an international

network of colleagues committed to

professional excellence.

Through its national sections active in

over 68 countries worldwide, the

International Police Association invites

all eligible members to take advantage

of this opportunity, turning their daily

dedication into a chance for

professional growth without borders.

Salvatore Del Giglio - Project Lead ATS

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IPA Connect October 2026 — Page 8

“Learning from Each Other, Building

Friendships, and Experiencing Policing

Around the World”

One of the greatest strengths of the

International Police Association is our

ability to bring police officers together from

around the world. The IPA Professional

Commission’s “On Patrol” concept puts

that mission into action by giving members

an opportunity to experience policing in

another country, exchange professional

knowledge, and build international

friendships through a unique combination

of education, operational exposure, and

fellowship.

“On Patrol” events are designed around a

simple idea: invite IPA members from other

Sections to visit a host country and give

them an inside look at how policing is

conducted there. Rather than being a

traditional classroom seminar, an “On

Patrol” event can include visits to police

stations and specialised units,

demonstrations, training sessions,

presentations, ride-alongs, or patrol

experiences where permitted, and

opportunities to speak directly with officers

about the challenges they face.

IPA Connect , October 2026

ON PATROL – Bringing

International Policing Together

Just as importantly, the program creates

opportunities for participants to compare

policing systems, tactics, equipment,

training, laws, and procedures. Officers

often discover that while laws, uniforms,

equipment, and organisational structures

may differ, many of the challenges facing

police officers are remarkably similar.

A Program with an International History

The “On Patrol” concept has already been

successfully used by IPA Sections and local

IPA groups in several countries.

In Germany, “Europe on Patrol” brought

officers from across Europe together in

Detmold (NRW) for professional visits,

interaction with local police, traffic

enforcement activities, and international

fellowship.

IPA Netherlands has been particularly

active in developing the concept.

“Netherlands on Patrol” has provided

international participants with an

opportunity to experience Dutch policing

firsthand. Participants have visited police

facilities, training centres and specialised

units while also spending time alongside

Dutch officers and learning about their

operational practices.

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IPA Connect October 2026 — Page 9

The concept expanded further through

“Low Lands on Patrol”, a cooperative

effort involving IPA members in the

Netherlands and Belgium. Participants

from numerous countries experienced

policing on both sides of the border,

including visits to specialised police

units, training facilities and operational

agencies. The program demonstrated

another important feature of “On Patrol”:

events do not have to be limited to a

single IPA Section or country.

Cooperation between neighboring

Sections can create an even broader

international experience.

Iceland On Patrol

IPA Section Iceland has also successfully

hosted an “On Patrol” program, showing

that an event does not need to be large

to be successful. Iceland's program

brought together a manageable group

of 9 international participants (Nordic

sections, Section UK and Section

Ireland) for professional and social

activities and demonstrated how the

“On Patrol” concept can be adapted to

the capabilities and resources of the

hosting Section.

ON PATROL – Bringing

International Policing Together

Lowlands On Patrol

Germany has continued the concept

through “Flensburg on Patrol”. The 2023

program brought international officers

to northern Germany for an event

centered on officer safety, alcohol and

drugs in traffic enforcement, and the

public perception of police.

Participants were also able to join

German colleagues during patrol

activities. More recently in August 2026,

Flensburg hosted the program for a

second time, welcoming 18 police

officers representing 11 countries. The

week included operational training,

specialised police demonstrations, foot

patrols, traffic enforcement and patrol

experiences with German officers.

Each of these programs has been

different—and that is exactly what

makes ON PATROL successful.

Munster On Patrol

9

IPA Connect , October 2026

IPA Connect October 2026 — Page 10

Your Section Can Host an “On Patrol”

Event

There is no single required format for an

“On Patrol” program.

A Section does not need to organise a

massive international conference or

have access to every specialized police

unit in the country. An “On Patrol” event

can be built around the resources,

agencies, personnel and policing

specialties available locally.

A program might focus on community

policing, patrol operations, traffic

enforcement, K-9 operations, police

training, investigations, public-order

policing, border security, specialized

units, officer safety, or another area in

which the host Section can provide

participants with meaningful

professional experience.

Programs can also combine

professional activities with cultural and

social events. Showing visiting officers,

the community, region and culture of the

host country is an important part of the

experience. Those informal opportunities

to talk, exchange ideas and build

relationships are often where Servo per

Amikeco – Service Through Friendship

truly comes to life.

The Professional Commission -

Education Team Is Here to Help

Sections interested in developing an “On

Patrol” event do not have to start from

scratch.

IPA Connect , October 2026

The IPA Professional Commission’s

Education Team are available to assist

interested Sections in developing an “On

Patrol” program. We can help discuss

the concept, share experiences and

ideas from previous events, assist with

program development, and help

Sections consider how their existing

police contacts, training opportunities

and local resources could be

incorporated into an international event.

The first step does not need to be

complicated. Identify what makes

policing in your area unique and what

you would like fellow IPA members from

other countries to experience.

From there, an “On Patrol” program can

grow.

Whether your Section can

accommodate eight international

officers or thirty, the objective remains

the same: bring police officers together,

exchange professional knowledge,

experience policing from another

perspective, and create friendships that

extend far beyond the event itself.

“On Patrol” represents what the

International Police Association does

best. It combines professional

development with international

exchange and friendship while giving

our serving members an opportunity

that few other organisations can

provide.

If your Section has considered hosting

an international police exchange, now is

the time to explore the possibilities.

Bring the world of the IPA to your police

service. Host an “On Patrol” event!

For additional information or assistance

in developing an “On Patrol” program,

Sections are encouraged to contact the

IPA Professional Commission –

Education Team. Inquiries can be sent

to: president@ipa-usa.org

Joe Johnson, IPA US Section, Education

Team Leader

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IPA Connect October 2026 — Page 11

Building Bridges for the Future

of Policing

Policing has never been more complex.

Today's officers must combine

operational expertise with empathy,

cultural awareness, leadership, and

adaptability while responding to

increasingly global challenges. As

policing evolves, so too must the

organisations that support it.

That is why #SHEisIPA matters.

IPA Connect , October 2026

What began as an initiative within the

International Police Association (IPA)

has grown into a global movement that

is strengthening the role of women in

policing through greater visibility,

leadership development, mentoring,

and international collaboration. More

than a membership initiative, #SHEisIPA

reflects the changing face of modern

policing.

In my previous article, I introduced May-

Britt Ronnebro, a retired Swedish police

officer, researcher, and crime expert

who remains an active member of the

#SHEisIPA initiative group. She is one of

many leaders committed to advancing

diversity, equality, and inclusion within

the IPA. While women now make up

almost 36 percent of police officers in

the United Kingdom, they represent only

15.7 percent of IPA members worldwide—

a gap that highlights the need for

initiatives such as #SHEisIPA.

Importantly, #SHEisIPA is not about

creating division or exclusive spaces. It

is about ensuring women in policing are

recognised, supported, connected, and

given opportunities to contribute fully to

the world's largest independent police

association.

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IPA Connect October 2026 — Page 12

More Than Representation

Women now serve across every aspect

of policing—from frontline operations

and criminal investigations to

cybercrime, intelligence, tactical

policing, and executive leadership. Their

influence on modern policing continues

to grow, yet professional organisations

have not always reflected that progress.

#SHEisIPA helps close that gap through

mentoring, leadership development, and

international networking, ensuring

women helping shape policing are

equally represented within the

profession's global networks.

Why It Matters to Australia

Australian policing has made significant

strides in promoting women into

leadership and specialist roles. Women

now command operational units, lead

complex investigations, influence policy,

and serve in some of the profession's

most demanding environments.

Yet many officers—particularly those

balancing career progression with

family responsibilities—can still find it

difficult to access mentoring,

professional networks, and broader

leadership opportunities.

#SHEisIPA offers something uniquely

valuable: connection to an international

community of policing professionals.

Through seminars, webinars,

professional exchanges, and

collaborative projects, members gain

insights into how police services around

the world address leadership,

organisational culture, wellbeing, and

emerging operational challenges.

IPA Connect , October 2026

These connections broaden

perspectives, encourage innovation,

and remind officers that many local

policing challenges are shared globally.

Leadership Without Borders

One of #SHEisIPA's greatest strengths is

its commitment to leadership

development.

“The 4th SHEisIPA Professional

Commission Seminar, held at IBZ

Gimborn in Germany in April 2026,

brought together participants from 20

countries and British Overseas

Territories. Focusing on themes such as

gender-responsive leadership,

advanced communication, ethics, and

the global HeForShe initiative, the

seminar demonstrated the value of

learning across cultures and policing

systems. More importantly, it reinforced

the friendships and professional

relationships that have long been

central to the IPA's mission. #SHEisIPA

(International Police Association IAC,

April 2026)

As crime becomes increasingly

transnational—with cybercrime,

organised crime, human trafficking, and

online exploitation crossing borders with

ease—these international relationships

are becoming essential. Officers who

understand how other jurisdictions

respond to shared challenges are better

equipped to innovate and strengthen

policing at home.

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IPA Connect October 2026 — Page 13

Australia's Opportunity

Australia enjoys an outstanding

international reputation for professional

policing, operational capability, and

innovation. Australian IPA members are

well placed to contribute by mentoring

emerging leaders, encouraging greater

participation in IPA activities, supporting

attendance at international events, and

sharing Australian policing initiatives

with colleagues around the world.

These practical actions strengthen

relationships and help develop future

police leaders.

Although Australia's distance from many

international policing events presents

challenges, it should not limit

engagement. Greater use of travel

support, virtual participation, and

coordinated Australian representation at

key IPA events can strengthen global

connections. By embracing technology

and international collaboration,

Australian police professionals can

continue contributing to—and benefiting

from—the worldwide exchange of

knowledge, leadership, and friendship.

IPA Connect , October 2026

Looking Ahead

The real significance of #SHEisIPA

extends well beyond increasing female

membership within the IPA. It represents

a broader commitment to building

stronger organisations through

inclusion, collaboration, and leadership.

When professional networks reflect the

diversity of the workforce, they become

richer in experience, stronger in ideas,

and better equipped to respond to the

challenges of modern policing.

Supporting women in policing is not

simply about equity—it is about

strengthening the profession itself.

For Australia, #SHEisIPA offers an

opportunity to deepen international

partnerships, invest in future leaders,

and contribute to a policing community

that is increasingly connected across

borders.

The future of policing will not be defined

solely by technology or tactics. It will be

shaped by the people willing to learn

from one another, build meaningful

partnerships, and lead with integrity.

Dana Rusa

IPA Australia

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IPA Connect October 2026 — Page 14

MEMBERS

When 52 young police officers from

across the world came together in

Germany for YPOS 2026, they did not

come simply to listen, observe and learn.

They were invited to contribute.

This was one of the central ideas behind

YPOS Germany 2026: young members

should not only experience the

International Police Association – they

should have the opportunity to help

shape its future.

Alongside an exciting professional

programme, IPA Germany created

space for workshops, strategic

discussions and direct dialogue,

resulting in a remarkable collection of

ideas that reached far beyond the

seminar week itself.

Young members should not only

experience the IPA – they should have

the opportunity to help shape its

future.

IPA Connect , October 2026

YPOS 2026 – Giving the Next

Generation a Voice

Young Police Officers Seminar

Germany 2026: More than a

seminar – a platform for ideas,

participation and the future of

the IPA

From participants to contributors

One workshop challenged participants

with the question: “If you were

Commission members, what new

international IPA project would you

develop?”

Working in international groups, the

young officers developed project

concepts, considering their purpose,

target groups, supporting Sections and

resources. Ideas ranged from an

international exchange on migration-

related policing, to a humanitarian

campaign supporting disadvantaged

children and a new Experienced Police

Officers Seminar (EPOS).

EPOS was particularly interesting

because it brought together the

generations within the IPA. Rather than

seeing young and experienced

members as separate groups,

participants proposed connecting them

so that professional experience, lessons

learned and police history can be

passed from one generation to the next.

The future of the IPA does not mean

replacing experience – it means

connecting experience with new

perspectives.

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IPA Connect October 2026 — Page 15

A second workshop focused on National

Sections, starting from the statement:

“International IPA cannot exist without

National Sections – the real work

happens locally.”

Participants shared successful

initiatives from their own Sections,

including professional seminars, digital

solutions, cooperation with public

authorities, innovative recruitment,

affordable accommodation, support for

international visitors, social projects and

activities for younger members.

The discussion raised an important

question: How can successful ideas

from one Section become inspiration for

others?

Young Members as a source of

strategic input

Participants also discussed what

younger police officers expect from the

IPA, including recruitment, social media,

attractive activities, opportunities to

develop initiatives and genuine

responsibility.

IPA Connect , October 2026

One message emerged clearly:

recruiting young members is only the

beginning. To retain them, they need

opportunities to participate, contribute

ideas, build networks and progressively

take responsibility.

Together with initiatives such as the

Standing Young Members Conference

(SYMC) and wider international Young

Members work, YPOS can become an

important source of direct input from

the next generation. The outcomes from

Germany can provide input for the

International Executive Board,

International Commissions and Young

Members Project when considering

future activities and the further

involvement of younger members.

Future Policing in Europe

Looking beyond the IPA itself,

participants had the opportunity to

speak with Lena Düpont, Member of the

European Parliament and Member of

the Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice

and Home Affairs (LIBE).

Under the title “Future Policing in Europe

– Opportunities and Challenges for the

Next Generation of Police Officers”, they

discussed internal security, migration,

border management and European

police cooperation – issues that will

increasingly shape their professional

careers.

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IPA Connect October 2026 — Page 16

The discussion allowed young officers to

exchange perspectives directly with a

European policymaker while giving the

political level an opportunity to hear

perspectives from young police officers

from different countries.

Thirty-one trees – roots for the future

As part of Green IPA, national trees were

planted at the LAFP NRW Education

Centre in Selm-Bork. With the ten trees

planted during YPOS 2026, every nation

represented at the seminar now has a

tree on the grounds, permanently

marked with its country’s flag.

Each tree represents a country; together

they represent the international

community created during YPOS – a

lasting reminder of the friendships,

conversations and ideas that began in

Germany.

It is a fitting symbol for GreenIPA and

Young Members: putting down roots

today while growing towards the future.

IPA Connect , October 2026

YPOS – an investment in the future

YPOS Germany 2026 demonstrated what

becomes possible when young police

officers are treated not merely as the

future membership of the IPA, but as

part of its present.

They trained together, challenged

perspectives, discussed the future of

policing, developed international IPA

projects, shared good practice and

planted something that will remain.

52 young police officers. Many

perspectives. New ideas. Thirty-one

trees. And one international network

ready to grow with them.

Philipp Kurz

Project Lead Young Members &

President IPA Germany

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IPA Connect October 2026 — Page 17

PolicemenU – A Taste That

Brings Police Officers

Together Around the World

Can you discover the culture of another

country without leaving your own

kitchen? It turns out you can.

Sometimes, all it takes is one recipe, a

few ingredients and a little curiosity. This

simple idea gave rise to “PolicemenU”, a

project created by the Socio-Cultural

Commission of the International Police

Association (IPA).

The Socio-Cultural Commission has

always been a place where IPA

members from around the world can

connect not only through their

profession, but also through culture, art

and shared passions. Photography,

video, poetry and painting are just some

of the areas in which the Commission

encourages members to express

themselves, discover different

perspectives and share their stories. At

some point, however, another question

arose: What else could bring us closer

together?

The answer turned out to be remarkably

simple – food. Food is so much more

than something we need every day.

IPA Connect , October 2026

It is tradition, history, family memories,

a way of spending time together and

an important part of our identity. The

dishes we prepare often carry the

stories of generations. They tell us a

great deal about where we come from

and what matters to us.

And so PolicemenU was born – a

culinary journey around the world,

guided by IPA members themselves.

Since the beginning of the year, every

Friday we have shared a recipe from a

different country on IPA social media.

Thanks to the involvement of IPA

members from around the world, we

discover traditional dishes, local

ingredients and culinary traditions

from different corners of the globe.

Each recipe becomes a small invitation

to visit another country – even if only

for a moment, around our own table.

But PolicemenU is not simply a

collection of recipes. It is a project

about people. It is about trying

something new, stepping outside our

everyday habits and perhaps

discovering a flavour we have never

experienced before. Most importantly, it

is about getting to know the people

behind each dish –

17

IPA Connect October 2026 — Page 18

PolicemenU Cont’

discovering what they cook for their

families, which flavours remind them of

home and which traditions they want to

pass on to future generations. In this

way, food becomes another language of

communication. A universal language

that can be understood regardless of

whether we are in Poland, Greece,

France, Albania, Lithuania, Peru or any

other part of the world.

IPA has always been about building

bridges between people. PolicemenU is

another such bridge – this time built

from flavours, aromas and stories.

The project also reminds us that

personal and professional development

does not end with improving our skills as

police officers.

policemenU on the International website

IPA Connect , October 2026

Discovering other cultures, embracing

diversity, being curious about the world

and being willing to look beyond our

own perspective all help us grow. They

make us more open-minded, aware and

better able to understand the people we

meet – both in our professional lives and

beyond. Every Friday’s recipe is therefore

much more than a suggestion for lunch

or dinner. It is a small cultural lesson, an

invitation to connect and an opportunity

to meet one another. Because

sometimes, to get to know another

person, you don’t need to speak their

language. You simply need to sit at the

same table. And if that table connects

people from different parts of the world

– even better.

Aneta Sobieraj

Arts & Culture Project Member, S.C.C.

18

IPA Connect October 2026 — Page 19

Tree of friendship for a greener

future - Sections Croatia and

Slovenia planted a tree of

friendship together

As part of the global environmental

initiative Green IPA - Plant a tree, which

is implemented under the auspices of

the Socio-Cultural Commission, during

the summer camp in Croatia, in

Valbandon, members of the Croatia and

Slovenia sections planted a friendship

tree, which will grow from now on as a

living symbol of friendship and

professional solidarity.

IPA Connect , October 2026

The Service Unit of the Ministry of the

Interior in Valbandon was chosen as the

location of this activity.

This location carries strong symbolism -

just as a young oak will grow and take

deep roots, new knowledge will be

developed in this place, experiences will

be exchanged and police cooperation

will be strengthened.

Next to the planted tree, a

commemorative board was placed that

will remind all future generations of

seminar and training attendees of this

joint action and IPA values.

IPA sections Croatia and Slovenia have

shown that they share not only a

common border, but also common

values - care for the community, nature

and professional friendship. In this way,

their members showed that the

cooperation of police officers goes

beyond professional boundaries and

contributes to the development of

friendship and the strengthening of good

neighborly relations.

19

IPA Connect October 2026 — Page 20

The friendship tree will remain a

permanent reminder of this activity and

a living symbol of growth, stability and

friendly ties between the two sections.

This event is not only a contribution to

the preservation of the environment and

a greener future, but also a concrete

example of the catchphrase Servo per

Amikeco.

The Socio-Cultural Commission and the

IPA Green Team invite all sections of the

IPA to join this wave of positive changes,

by planting trees, nature cleaning

actions, reducing the use of plastic, or in

any other ecological way, because

every step is important. Croatia and

Slovenia set a great example - let's

plant the seeds of a greener and better

future for all of us.

Green IPA Project Lead -Biljana Dulović

IPA Connect , October 2026 20

IPA Connect October 2026 — Page 21

IPA

SPORTS

IPA Games – More

Than a Sporting Event

The IPA Games have become one of the

most significant international events

within the International Police

Association calendar, bringing together

members from different countries

through sport, friendship and

professional cooperation. While

competition is undoubtedly at the heart

of the Games, their true value extends

far beyond the sporting arena.

For every National Section that accepts

the challenge of hosting the IPA Games,

the event represents a complex and

demanding project. Organising multiple

sports disciplines requires careful

planning, dedicated volunteers, efficient

logistics and close coordination

between numerous partners. Every

competition, venue, schedule and

participant contributes to the success of

an event that must meet both sporting

and organisational expectations.

Yet, despite these challenges, the IPA

Games remain, above all, a unique

opportunity for the host country to

showcase its identity.

IPA Connect , October 2026

IPA Games Poland 2026

Hosting the Games means becoming

an ambassador for one’s nation,

presenting its traditions, culture,

hospitality and values to colleagues

from across the IPA family. Every

opening ceremony, cultural

programme, local excursion and

informal gathering becomes an

opportunity to create lasting memories

and strengthen international

friendships.

The event is, therefore, a harmonious

blend of sporting excellence, cultural

exchange, and social interaction.

Athletes compete with determination

and respect, while participants discover

new places, experience local customs

and build connections that often

continue long after the Games have

ended. This spirit perfectly reflects the

IPA motto, Servo per Amikeco – Service

Through Friendship.

Equally important is the institutional

dimension of the IPA Games. Such

events foster cooperation between

police organisations, public authorities,

local administrations and community

partners. They demonstrate the

organisational capacity of the host

National Section while reinforcing

professional relationships and

promoting the values of mutual respect,

solidarity and international

collaboration.

21

IPA Connect October 2026 — Page 22

IPA

SPORTS

As the IPA Games continue to grow from

one edition to the next, the International

Police Association is now looking for the

IPA Games Portugal 2018

host country of the 5th IPA Games. This

is an exciting opportunity for any

National Section willing to take on the

challenge and leave its own mark on

one of the Association’s flagship

international events.

Recognising the increasing scale and

complexity of the Games, the Socio-

Cultural Commission (SCC) and the IPA

Sports Project Team are fully prepared

to provide guidance and practical

assistance to candidate host countries

throughout the planning and delivery

IPA Games Montenegro 2022

process. Their experience, accumulated

over previous editions, is available to

support future organisers in developing

an event that reflects the highest

standards of the IPA while preserving

the unique identity and traditions of the

host nation.

The legacy of the IPA Games cannot be

measured solely by medals or rankings.

Their greatest achievement lies in

bringing people together, strengthening

the bonds between National Sections

and creating a platform where sport IPA Games Romania 2024

serves as a common language, culture

becomes a bridge between nations and

friendship remains the lasting victory.

Every National Section has a story to tell.

Hosting the IPA Games is an opportunity

to share that story with the entire IPA

family while contributing to the

continued growth of one of our

Association’s most successful

international initiatives.

Mihai Tartareanu

Project Lead - Sports

IPA Games Poland 2026

IPA Connect , October 2026 22

IPA Connect October 2026 — Page 23

Could Your Section Host the

Next IPA Games?

Expressions of Interest invited for

2028 or 2030

Could your IPA Section bring members

from around the world together for one

of the Association’s most exciting

international events?

The search is now beginning for a

Section to host the IPA Games in either

2028 or 2030, and we want to hear from

Sections who would like to take on this

exciting opportunity.

The IPA Games are about far more than

sport. They bring members together

through friendly competition,

international friendship and the shared

values of Servo per Amikeco. They are

an opportunity to meet colleagues from

around the world, discover a new

destination and create friendships and

memories that last long after the

Games have ended.

For the host Section, the Games are also

a unique opportunity to showcase your

country, region, culture and hospitality

to an international audience.

IPA Connect , October 2026

Why host the IPA Games?

Hosting the Games is a significant

undertaking, but it can be an incredibly

rewarding experience for a Section and

its members. It offers the opportunity to:

Welcome IPA members from around

the world and create an unforgettable

international gathering.

Showcase your country and region,

including its culture, attractions,

sporting facilities and hospitality.

Promote the IPA locally and

internationally and raise awareness of

the Association.

Build stronger international

relationships with Sections and

members worldwide.

Involve local members, volunteers

and younger members in organising

and delivering an international event.

Create lasting friendships and

memories through sport, social

activities and international exchange.

The Games can also provide

opportunities to work with local

authorities, sporting organisations,

tourism partners and other organisations,

creating relationships that can benefit

the Section beyond the event itself.

Could you be our next host?

Every host brings its own identity to the

IPA Games. Whether your Section has

outstanding sporting facilities, a vibrant

city, or beautiful countryside, we want to

hear your ideas.

You do not need to have every detail

decided at this stage. We can begin

discussions about what would be

required.

If your Section would like to submit an

Expression of Interest, please contact:

iac@ieb-ipa.org

23

IPA Connect October 2026 — Page 24

GREECE

A journey through friendship,

between Casas IPA, history and

the sea

From Athens to Crete, passing through

Thessaloniki and the mountains of

Nymfeon, a travel proposal that

crosses four IPA Houses and reveals

different faces of Greece.

There are trips that are made to get to

know places. And there are trips that are

made to meet people.

Traveling through the International

Police Association is to combine these

two experiences: discovering new

countries, cultures and landscapes,

knowing that, along the way, there are

doors that open and companions who

share the same values of friendship and

camaraderie.

Greece is a destination particularly

suited to this philosophy.

Between the monumentality of ancient

Athens, the energy of Thessaloniki, the

tranquility of the Nymfeon mountains

and the crystal clear waters of Crete, it is

possible to build a route of

approximately eleven days, using four

IPA Houses as support points.

IPA Connect , October 2026

An itinerary that combines history,

heritage, nature, gastronomy, beaches

and, above all, friendship.

ATHENS – Where the story began.

The journey begins in Athens at

Eleftherios Venizelos International

Airport.

The Greek capital needs no introduction.

It is a city where thousands of years of

history coexist daily with a modern,

dynamic and lively metropolis.

The first stage of the trip has the IPA

House in Athens as a support point.

The visit to the city should start at the

Acropolis, where the Parthenon

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

continues to dominate the Athenian

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

landscape. The visit to the Acropolis

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Museum then allows you to better

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

understand the archaeological heritage

that testifies to the importance of Greek

civilization.

But Athens is not limited to the great

monuments.

It is also to walk through the streets of

Plaka, discover Anafiotika, stop at a

terrace, walk through Monastiraki and

feel the movement of the city.

At the end of the day, the best option will

be to simply leave the map aside and

get lost in the streets of the historic

center.

24

IPA Connect October 2026 — Page 25

From the Acropolis to the Mediterranean

On the second day, we can exchange the

ancient stones for the blue of the

Mediterranean.

The proposal is to follow the Athenian

Riviera, passing through Glyfada,

Vouliagmeni and Varkiza, before

continuing to Cape Sounion.

It is a journey that combines sea,

landscape and heritage.

At the end of the route is the majestic

Temple of Poseidon, erected on the cliffs

of Cape Sounion.

If the schedule allows, it is worth staying

until sunset.

It's one of those images that stay in the

memory long after returning home.

Not to be missed: Acropolis, Parthenon,

Acropolis Museum, Plaka, Monastiraki and

Cape Sounion.

Suggested beaches: Vouliagmeni and

Varkiza.

THESSALONIKI

A city facing the sea

From Athens we continue north.

It is about 500 kilometres to Thessaloniki,

a journey that can be done by car and

allows you to discover the diversity of

mainland Greece.

The second largest city in the country,

Thessaloniki has a personality of its own.

The Casa IPA in Thessaloniki will be our

starting point to discover the city.

The White Tower, the seafront

promenade, Aristotle Square, the Church

of St. Demetrius, the Arch of Galerius and

the Rotunda are some of the must-see

stops.

IPA Connect , October 2026

At the end of the day, the Ladadika

district offers the perfect setting to

sample the local cuisine in one of its

traditional taverns.

Suggested beaches: Afitos, Kallithea

and Sani.

NYMFEON

The Greece that few know

From Thessaloniki we head west,

towards the Florina region.

The landscape begins to change.

The blue of the sea gives way to the

green of the mountains and we enter a

lesser-known Greece, quieter and deeply

connected to nature.

We arrive at Nymfeon, a mountain village

situated at an altitude of about 1,350

meters.

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IPA Connect October 2026 — Page 26

Here we find a traditional architecture

marked by stone houses, cobbled

streets and an atmosphere of tranquility

that completely contrasts with the

rhythm of Athens and Thessaloniki.

It is precisely this diversity that makes

this trip so interesting.

The IPA House in Nymfeon allows you to

stay two nights in the region and get to

know a different side of Greece.

CRETA

The blue that ends the trip

The time has come to change the

scenario again.

From Nymfeon we return to

Thessaloniki, where we deliver the car

and fly to Chania, in Crete. From here,

the car is once again our travel

companion.

The last IPA House on the route is

located in Sternes, in the Chania region.

And the change is immediate.

The green of the mountains gives way

to the deep blue of the Mediterranean.

IPA Connect , October 2026

FOUR CASAS IPA.

A SINGLE TRIP.

The great richness of this route is not

only in the places visited, it is also in the

possibility of crossing Greece with four

IPA Houses as support points.

Atenas.

Thessaloniki.

Nymfeon.

Sternes.

Four locations. Four landscapes. Four

experiences.

And the same network of friendship.

Casa IPA thus becomes not only a place

to sleep, but a meeting point.

A place where a trip can start with a

greeting and end with a friendship.

TRAVELING IS SERVING THROUGH

FRIENDSHIP

There are places we visited once.

There are others to which we want to

return.

And there are trips that leave something

more important than photographs.

They leave people.

That's the true meaning of an IPA trip.

To get to know Greece through its IPA

Houses is to discover an extraordinary

country, but also to strengthen the ties

that unite members from different

countries.

From the Acropolis to the mountains of

Nymfeon, from the streets of

Thessaloniki to the beaches of Crete,

this is a journey made of contrasts.

History and modernity. Mountain and

sea. Tradition and contemporaneity.

Discovery and friendship.

Because, for those who travel with IPA,

the destination is important, but the

people we meet along the way are what

truly transforms a trip into a memory for

life.

SERVO PER AMIKECO

Serving through friendship

Paula Borralho

Vice-President of the Portuguese

Section , Travel Project Leader

26

IPA Connect October 2026 — Page 27

Fërgesë is a traditional savory,

sometimes slightly spicy cheese sauce

made with gëzë, the Albanian ricotta

cheese. This dish is a staple in Albanian

households, especially in Tirana. It is

prepared with roasted peppers,

tomatoes, and salted gëzë, with

regional variations adding different

ingredients based on local ingredients.

Fërgesë is sometimes also prepared

with meat in a version known as fërgesë

me melçi , which includes liver or other

organ meats to create a more protein-

rich version of this classic dish. Usually

served in clay pots straight from the

oven, order this delicious dish on your

next visit to Tirana to experience

authentic Albanian cuisine!

IPA Connect , October 2026

Ingredients for 4-5 people

Pepper 8-10 medium pieces

Tomato 4-5 medium sized

Fat for frying

2 cups of coffee

Flour 1 tablespoon

Egg 2 grains

Garlic 4-5 cloves

Cottage cheese 4-5 tablespoons

Chili pepper as desired

Preparation

Peppers are cleaned of stems and

seeds, washed and fried. In the

remaining fat, add peeled and finely

chopped tomatoes, sauté until the

mixture thickens, remove from heat,

add eggs, chili pepper, finely chopped

parsley, cottage cheese or cheese.

Place the mixture on a plate and place

the fried peppers on top.

You can find all PolicemenU

Recipes on the International Website

https://tinyurl.com/ipamenus

27

IPA Connect October 2026 — Page 28

ROADPOL Shaping Autumn

2026 with Major Road Safety

Events

An exceptionally active period for

ROADPOL, the European Roads Policing

Network is looming in the upcoming

autumn with major road safety

initiatives, professional training events, a

road safety conference and a significant

anniversary celebration.

Campaign

A key highlight will be the annual

ROADPOL Safety Days (RSD) campaign,

traditionally

taking place from 16 to 22 September

2026. ROADPOL has designated 17

September as the target day for

achieving zero road fatalities across

Europe. As the organisation's flagship

Vision Zero initiative, Safety Days aims to

demonstrate that deaths on the roads

are preventable and to encourage all

road users to adopt safer behaviour

under the slogan #zeromeanslife.

This year's campaign will focus on

pedestrian safety, recognising

pedestrians as one of the most

vulnerable groups on Europe's roads.

ROADPOL hopes to unite governments,

public institutions, businesses,

educational organisations, NGOs, and

citizens in raising awareness and

promoting safer roads for everyone.

Master Class

ROADPOL will also continue its important

educational mission through the Master

Class on Smart Tachograph Fraud

Prevention in October in Belgium. Held

under the EU cofinanced STRIDER III

Project, the advanced training brings

together police and road inspection

enforcement officers from across Europe

to improve their ability to detect

increasingly sophisticated manipulation

of smart tachographs.

28

IPA Connect October 2026 — Page 29

Combining lectures, demonstrations

and practical exercises, the course

strengthens cross-border enforcement

cooperation while supporting fair

competition and road safety in the

transport sector.

Seminar

In October, the Spanish Civil Guard

(Guardia Civil) will host the ROADPOL

Seminar at its Traffic Police Academy in

Mérida. This year's seminar will focus on

"Technologies for Road Safety." As in

previous editions, the seminar is

designed as a collaborative event, built

by and for the ROADPOL community. Its

programme will consist primarily of

presentations delivered by participating

member countries, allowing police

forces to share practical experience,

innovative approaches and best

practices in the use of technology to

improve road safety and enforcement.

Each participating police force will

initially be offered two speaking

opportunities, with final allocation

depending on the number of registered

countries and venue capacity.

Where programme capacity allows,

leading industry companies will also be

invited to present their latest products

and technological solutions, creating

opportunities for bilateral cooperation

and providing participants with an

overview of current innovations relevant

to road policing and road safety.

Anniversary

And in between another major event on

the ROADPOL calendar will be the

celebration of the organisation's 30th

anniversary on 8 October 2026 in 's-

Hertogenbosch (Den Bosch), the

Netherlands, hosted by the Dutch Police.

Alongside reflections on the network's

three decades of achievements and

development, the occasion will feature

a high-level road safety conference

with speakers from law enforcement,

academia and partner organisations

from across Europe. Discussions will

cover the latest developments in road

safety, enforcement innovations,

emerging technologies and future

challenges, while providing an excellent

platform for professional networking

and the exchange of expertise among

Europe's leading road policing

professionals.

Discussions will cover the latest

developments in road safety,

enforcement innovations, emerging

technologies and future challenges,

while providing an excellent platform for

professional networking and the

exchange of expertise among Europe's

leading road policing professionals.

ROADPOL General Secretary

commented: "The coming months will

be very busy for ROADPOL and will

present valuable opportunities to

strengthen cooperation, share expertise

and advance our common goal of safer

roads across Europe. From ROADPOL

Safety Days and specialist training to

our annual seminar and the conference,

each event demonstrates the

commitment of our members and

partners to saving lives and improving

road safety. I look forward to working

together with colleagues from across

Europe during this period."

International Relations Commission &

ROADPOL

29

IPA Connect October 2026 — Page 30

IPA

M A R K E T I N G

The IPA Website – Connecting

Our International Association

Last November, the International Police

Association launched its brand-new

website, introducing a fresh design, new

branding colours and a more modern,

recognisable identity for the IPA. Since its

launch, this new visual identity has

continued across our promotional

materials, social media and

communications, helping to create a

stronger and more consistent

international IPA brand.

IPA Connect , October 2026

But the website has not stood still. Since

its launch, it has continued to evolve,

with new features, information and

resources being added to make it an

increasingly valuable platform for our

members, Sections and Regions.

Members can now discover upcoming

international events, find information

about seminars taking place at the

education centre Gimborn, and explore

IPA Houses around the world. The IPA

Houses section provides members with

an easy way to discover

accommodation and hosting

opportunities when travelling, while

helping to showcase one of the unique

benefits of being part of our

international association.

Another important development is our

electronic travel form. Members can

submit their travel enquiry online,

allowing the request to be passed their

IPA Section to liase with the IPA Section

at their destination. This provides an

easier way for members to seek

assistance with their visit, make

contact with local IPA friends and,

where possible, arrange meetings or

support during their travels.

For Sections and Regions, we have also

introduced a dedicated Sections Area

of the website. Accessible via password,

this provides a central online resource

containing ready-to-use templates,

important IPA documents, procedures

and other materials to support Sections

in their day-to-day work. The National

Sections area also provides access to

Section information and contact details

where these have been provided,

replacing the previous manual

information guide with a resource that

can be kept more accessible and up to

date.

Visit Our Website

30

IPA Connect October 2026 — Page 31

IPA Marketing

The website also provides a window

into the work taking place across our

international IPA network. Members

can learn more about the priorities

and projects being developed by our

Commissions and international

project teams, discover opportunities

to get involved and keep up to date

with the latest initiatives taking place

across the Association.

From international meetings and

friendship events to competitions,

seminars, cultural activities and

member projects, the website

provides a central place to showcase

what is happening across the IPA. It

also gives Sections an opportunity to

share their activities and promote

events to the wider international

membership.

Importantly, the website is designed to

continue developing. We are

continually reviewing how information

is presented, what members and

Sections need and how we can make

the website easier to navigate and

more useful. New events, features,

accommodation, resources and

information are being added

regularly, ensuring that the website

remains a living and evolving platform

rather than simply a place to find

static information.

IPA Connect , October 2026

The IPA Website – Connecting

Our International Association

The new website has therefore

become much more than a digital

home for the IPA. It is increasingly a

hub for communication, connection,

information and international

cooperation — helping members

discover what is happening across

our Association, connect with IPA

friends around the world and make

the most of the opportunities that

membership provides.

As the IPA continues to grow and

develop, so too will our digital

presence, ensuring that our website

reflects the modern, international

and connected Association we are

building for the future.

Hana Bower

Office Manager IAC & Member of

International Marketing Team

Are you working for your

section?

Do you need access to

the Sections Area?

Contact your national

secretary general today

for the password

Visit Our Website

31

IPA Connect October 2026 — Page 32

Among the key discussions and

decisions will be:

Activities and achievements –

reviewing the work and activities of

the Association over the past year.

Financial position –considering the

current financial position of the IPA.

Motions –discussing motions

submitted by both the International

Executive Board (IEB) and National

Sections.

Future events –considering hosts

for major upcoming IPA events,

including YPOS, SYMC and future

World Congresses.

The IPA’s non-political status –

discussions concerning the

Association’s position as a non-

political organisation.

Statutes and governance –

considering proposed changes to

the International Statutes and the

development of roles and

responsibilities within the

Association.

Membership and affiliation –

considering the full affiliation of IPA

Colombia and the provisional

affiliation of IPA Seychelles as the

Association continues to grow

internationally.

IPA Connect , October 2026

th

69 IPA World

Congress 2026

Colombo, Sri Lanka

The largest and most prestigious event

in the IPA calendar takes place this

month, from 20–25 October 2026, as

representatives from across the world

come together for the 69th IPA World

Congress in Colombo, Sri Lanka.

Hosted by IPA Sri Lanka, the World

Congress provides an important

opportunity for representatives from our

Sections to meet in friendship,

strengthen international connections

and discuss the future direction of our

Association.

Alongside the opportunity to reconnect

with friends and colleagues from around

the world, the Congress will feature a

number of important discussions and

decisions concerning the work and

development of the IPA.

It is also an opportunity to look ahead,

with representatives able to share new

ideas, initiatives and proposals that

could help shape the future of the

Association and create new

opportunities for IPA members

worldwide.

The World Congress is at the heart of

the IPA’s international governance and

provides Sections with a valuable

opportunity to contribute to the

decisions that shape our future.

We look forward to welcoming friends

and representatives from around the

world to Colombo and to sharing the

key outcomes, decisions and highlights

from the Congress in forthcoming

editions of IPA Connect.

32

IPA Connect October 2026 — Page 33

IPA House Arresøhus

Denmark

Location:

Arresøhus is located in North Zealand

next to Denmark’s largest lake called

Arresø. The oldest part of Arresøhus was

built for about 140 years ago as a

residence for the staff of the army. The

house was in 1957 taken over by town

government of Kregme / Vinderød and

was until 1991 used as town hall. IPA –

Region 6 Denmark bought the house in

November 1993 and after minor

remodelling, the house was named IPA

Arresøhus and officially inaugurated on

4 March 1994.

Accommodation:

IPA Arresøhus is 258 square meters in 3

levels. On the ground floor there are 2

double bedrooms and 3 bedrooms for 4

people and 1 toilet. On the first floor

there are 3 singles, 3 doubles and 2. 4-

bed rooms, two toilets and one

bathroom. In total 14 rooms with 35 beds

and also 15 guest beds, so a grand total

of 50 beds. On the ground floor there is

a large living room with sofas, TV, video

Your paragraph text

and DVD player and a laptop. There is a

projector with a large screen, and for

educational purposes a whiteboard.

Wireless Internet access is available

anywhere in the house. In the basement

there is a dining room and cutlery for 50

people. There are good kitchen facilities

with 2 ceramic stoves with ovens, 2

fridge / freezers and coffee makers and

an industrial dishwasher. In the dining

room there is a cosy bar with draft beer.

Furthermore, in the basement there are

separate bath and toilet facilities for

both ladies and gentlemen.

IPA Connect , October 2026

Location: Frederiksværk, North Zealand

House Mnager: Aage Poulsen

Bookings: Aage Poulsen

International Code:DKAR

Accomodation:House

Sleeps:50

Rooms: 14

For More Information on

this house or other IPA

Houses please visit The

International Website:

https://ipa-

international.org/ipa-

houses/

33

IPA Connect October 2026 — Page 34

Bosnia &

Herzegovina

The IPA Section Bosnia and Herzegovina

– Club Sarajevo hosted another

international gathering of members of

the International Police Association. The

Friendship Sports Games – Sarajevo

2026 were held from 13 to 16 August,

bringing together 250 colleagues and

friends from 8 countries in the region

and beyond.

During the same period, the traditional

Sarajevo Film Festival was held, which

the guests of the IPA Club Sarajevo were

able to visit and enjoy the atmosphere

that adorns the city during those days.

Around 200 competitors competed in

five sports disciplines – mini football

4+1, table tennis, bowling, 9 mm pistol

shooting at 20 meters and a 5 km race.

The sports part of the meeting brought

a lot of excitement, fair play and good

results, but, as befits IPA meetings, the

result was secondary to socializing and

making new friends.

IPA Connect , October 2026

IPA meetings in Sarajevo –

sport that connects colleagues

and friends

A special part of the program was

reserved for joint activities outside the

sports fields. Participants had the

opportunity to enjoy rafting, which was

taken advantage of by 130 participants,

with a shared meal and socializing,

while for those who wanted something

different, a trip to Tito’s bunker or the

pyramid was organised.

Sarajevo was thus once again a

meeting place for police officers and IPA

friends of different generations and

backgrounds. Conversations, shared

moments, sports competitions and

evening gatherings were an opportunity

to exchange experiences, strengthen

existing ones and make new friends.

34

IPA Connect October 2026 — Page 35

Bosnia &

Herzegovina cont

This is precisely the greatest value of

such meetings – that colleagues

connected by the police profession get

to know each other outside of official

duties, through sports, socialising and

joint activities. IPA Sarajevo and the

hosts showed that sports games can

be much more than competitions –

they are a space for connecting people,

strengthening international cooperation

and the friendship that is at the heart of

IPA’s activities.

The participants of the Sarajevo

meetings took home medals, awards

and sports memories, but above all new

acquaintances and friendships.

Because, when it comes to IPA, the most

important victory is not the one at the

scoreboard – but the friendship that

lasts even after the game is over.

President of the IPA Club Sarajevo

Muamer Klino

IPA Connect , October 2026

IPA meetings in Sarajevo –

sport that connects colleagues

and friends

35

IPA Connect October 2026 — Page 36

Tactical breaching

Iceland Selfoss, Sept 8. – 9th, 2026

Section Iceland continued its

cooperation with various agencies,

police departments and police

associations here in Iceland and offered

training days in tactical breaching Sept

8th and 9th in the town of Selfoss in

southern Iceland.

Using our extensive network we linked

up again with Mr. Shane Foster at Guild

Solutions Group that specialises in CQB

and tactical breaching training. Shane

has been to Iceland before but this time

Jason Long came with him and

together they brought a lot of

experience and expertise in tactical

breaching.

The training consisted of half day

lecture and then hands on training after

the lunch break. Weather always plays

a key role in Iceland and what a

gorgeous day we had Sept 8th. We will

not discuss the weather on Sept 9th.

This was a multi agency cooperation.

The fire department of Selfoss provided

a venue, training door, two cars to work

with and some tools. The Reykjavik fire

department brought their training door

and tools as well. Selfoss and Reykjavik

police provided tools as well to make

this a successful two days.

In attendance were police officers from

Selfoss and members of the fire

departments of Selfoss and Reykjavik.

IPA Connect , October 2026 36

IPA Connect October 2026 — Page 37

Iceland Cont

Early last year we started talks with the

police association in Selfoss and asked

for cooperation (mostly funding) in

creating a couple of training days in their

area using our network in finding the

qualified personnel. With good planning

we were able to make this happen and

our first responders benefitted from these

two days.

IPA Connect , October 2026

Tactical breaching

Selfoss, Sept 8. – 9th, 2026.

We are so very grateful for all the help

and equipment provided by the

cooperating agencies. Selfoss PD´s

hospitality was outstanding with

solutions to every challenge.

This kind of colaberation between

Section Iceland and local police

associations is in its 9th year and has

lifted the IPA name in Iceland and

attracted new members every time we

host a training event.

This strategy is simple, effective and

doesnt need long, costly and

meaningless meetings, just action!

Yours in friendship

Baldur Olafsson

President

Section Iceland

37

IPA Connect October 2026 — Page 38

Ireland

#SHEISIPA Hiking Weekend

th th

July 17 to 19 July 2026

Flashback to October 2025 a number of

IPA Women gathered around a table in

the tumbar having a couple of social

drinks. It was the last evening of a very

successful #SHEISIPA leadership

seminar, talk turned to staying in touch

and possibly visiting each other’s

countries. Invitations and contact

details were exchanged and the idea of

a hiking weekend in Ireland floated to

the top. So often such good plans can

stay behind in the bar or dissipate over

time and or distance, but this group

were so enthusiastic about heading to

Ireland that actual plans soon took

shape. Whatsapp groups were of

course set up and numerous messages

and memes were exchanged.

On arriving home I realised that I may

have bitten off more than I could chew

inviting an international contingent to

Ireland so I reached out to my ever

reliable IPA region 13 fellow committee

members Dave Robinson, Kevin

Fitzpatrick and Avril Foley.

IPA Connect October 2026

Region 13 were proud to provide their

mini bus and even commissioned a

beautiful hiking mug to commemorate

the weekend.

Marie Daly and Karen Duckworth of the

#SHEISIPA committee helped to turn the

weekend from an informal get together

to an official #SHEISIPA event. James

Codd and IPA Ireland provided much

admired memorabilia and refreshments

for all of the attendees 12 in all with

#SHEISIPA members from Germany,

Netherlands, Japan, Northern Ireland,

England, Sweden and Norway.

Friday saw us visiting Bray, a beautiful

seaside town in the North of Wicklow

where we stopped for a quick dip in the

sea, a trip on a Ferris Wheel and Lunch.

Friday evening saw the whole group

arrive and have dinner together

followed by, of course by a few drinks

but not too many as the thoughts of the

following early morning hike saw most

heading to bed early.

38

IPA Connect October 2026 — Page 39

Ireland Cont

#SHEISIPA Hiking Weekend

th th

July 17 to 19 July 2026

Saturday morning we were extremely

lucky to wake up to a clear sunny day

and off we headed on our mini bus to

the stunning Glendalough located in

the heart of Wicklow. On arrival we were

met by Anne Marie Larkin, Lorraine

Wheatley and approximately 15 women

for IPA Ireland hiking. We started out on

the 10 kilometres loop walk of the Spinc

Route and never was the ethos of Servo

per amikeco better on display than

here with water, hats, sunscreen,

snacks, walking sticks and words of

encouragement being passed around,

the feeling of support and solidarity

among this group of IPA women was

tangible. At the end of the hike which

everyone completed (despite some

serious reservations) all of the

#SHEISIPA participants were presented

with impressive IPA hiking challenge

coins. Next stop, Wicklow Wolf brewery

located in Newtownmountkennedy

were the participants were treated to a

tour of the brewery with plenty of

samples provided as well as a etched

pint glass to remember their visit. Then

back to the hotel for a sit down meal

with beautiful presentations from

#SHEISIPA committee to the Section 13

Wicklow Committee and IPA Ireland.

IPA Connect October 2026

Sunday Morning saw a presentation to

the little Blue Heros charity of a cheque

from Money raised by the #SHEISIPA

participants in April 2026. Then a trip to

Wicklow town where the participants

were brought on a whistle stop tour of

Wicklow Garda station. After the tour we

all took part in a Yoga and wellness

session hosted by IPA member Laoise

Traynor. It was the most energetic and

much loved yoga class most of us had

ever attended. After heating up in

yoga it was time to cool down so a walk

across the road brought us to Wicklow

Harbour for a dip in the sea and a jump

of the Harbour wall into the sea for the

more adventurous.

Our last dinner together in the Bridge

bar in Wicklow and talk turned to the

location for the next #SHEISIPA

adventure…...

Suzanne Ford

IPA Ireland

39

IPA Connect October 2026 — Page 40

Japan

From August 2 to 9, 2026, I had the

privilege of participating in the Young

Police Officers' Seminar (YPOS), held at

the LAFP NRW (North Rhine-Westphalia

State Police Training Center) in

Germany.

The theme of the seminar was “Future

Meets Training – Digitalization in Police

Operational Training.” A total of 52 police

officers from 32 countries took part.

Throughout the week, we explored

different approaches to police work and

training, experienced new technologies,

and exchanged ideas.

One of the first activities was a group

discussion on the future of IPA. We were

asked to consider what we would do if

we were in a position to lead IPA. It was

an opportunity to exchange ideas with

young police officers from different

countries and consider international

police cooperation from a wider

perspective.

IPA Connect , October 2026

Participating in the Young Police

Officers' Seminar (YPOS) 2026

We then visited the police headquarters

in Bochum and toured a riot police unit.

Having served in a riot police unit

myself, I was particularly interested in

comparing their operations with those in

Japan. I found many similarities, as well

as some interesting differences. In

particular, seeing mounted police

manage demonstrations was a

memorable experience, as this is not

part of riot police operations in Japan.

At the Innovation Lab in Duisburg, we

were introduced to an AI-powered

translation system that translates

spoken language and displays the

results in real time. I was impressed by

its potential to overcome language

barriers and speed up communication. I

also felt that AI could complement our

own communication skills. By talking

directly with each other and using AI

when needed, we could communicate

more smoothly and effectively,

especially in international police

operations.

40

IPA Connect October 2026 — Page 41

Japan Cont

In St. Augustin, we visited a Federal Police

battalion and learned about their work in

dealing with disasters and terrorist

attacks. We also heard about incidents

that had affected public security in

Germany. Although the circumstances in

Germany and Japan are different, I

found several similarities in the

challenges faced by both countries.

The seminar also included practical

training. A company specialising in

police equipment and techniques

provided instruction in arrest techniques,

giving us an opportunity to learn and

practice different approaches.

We also experienced virtual-reality

shooting training provided by a

company specialising in police

technology and equipment. The system

creates a realistic training environment

without the need for a conventional

shooting range. I was impressed by its

potential and could see how

digitalization may change police training

in the future. Looking back, I gained a

great deal from the experience.

Comparing police work and training in

different countries broadened my

perspective and gave me new ideas for

my own work. I also built friendships with

police officers from around the world.

IPA Connect , October 2026

Participating in the Young Police

Officers' Seminar (YPOS) 2026

We spent many hours together, sharing

meals, talking about our work and

everyday lives, and exchanging patches

and coins. These informal moments

were an important part of the seminar

and helped us get to know each other

better.

Although YPOS 2026 has ended, we

remain in contact. Some of my new

friends are already planning to visit

Japan, and I look forward to welcoming

them and continuing the friendships we

began in Germany.

I would highly recommend the Young

Police Officers' Seminar to young police

officers around the world. If you have

the opportunity to participate, I

encourage you to take on the challenge

and experience it for yourself. You will

return home with valuable knowledge,

fresh perspectives, and friendships that

will continue long after the seminar

ends.

I am truly grateful to IPA for giving me

this unforgettable opportunity and to

IPA Germany for organising such a

meaningful and memorable seminar.

Shuto Sato

IPA Japan Tokyo Branch

41

IPA Connect October 2026 — Page 42

Kazakhstan

On July 31, 2026, Mr. Martin Hoffmann,

the International President of IPA,

alongside his wife Angela and Mr. Kurt

Walker, the 2. Vice-President of the IPA

Regional Group of Salzburg and the

Salzburg Regional Group Chairman,

with his wife Barbara arrived in Almaty

with a working visit. During the visit, Kurt

Walker, the members of the Central

Executive Committee of the Kazakhstan

IPA Section, and the Regional Branch

Directors took part in a conference, held

under the presidency of Martin

Hoffmann in the city of Almaty.

IPA Connect , October 2026

International President Visits

IPA Kazakhstan

In the course of the conference, Martin

Hoffmann reviewed the Association’s

performance, outlined the

organisation’s further objectives, and

presented new developing projects of

the IEB IPA. The president provided the

participants with detailed and

comprehensive answers to their

questions. Following the results of the

conference, Galym Beristemov,

President of the Kazakhstan IPA Section,

presented a «35 Years of the

Independence of the Republic of

Kazakhstan» jubilee medal to Martin

Hoffmann and Kurt Walker.

42

IPA Connect October 2026 — Page 43

Kazakhstan Cont

Since the purpose of Martin Hoffmann’s

visit was an official meeting with

representatives of the Ministry of

Internal Affairs of the Republic of

Kazakhstan, the delegation departed for

the capital of Kazakhstan, the city of

Astana, where the meeting was to take

place. The delegation was met upon

arrival by Marat Nurgaliev, the

chairman of the Section’s Council of

Elders. He kindly invited the delegation

to the Kazakhstan Section Office, and

then it was escorted to the International

Affairs Department of the Republic of

Kazakhstan, where the meeting with the

representatives of the Kazakhstan IPA

Section was held. In the end of the

meeting, General Umurzak

Bolsambekov and Marat Nurgaliev

presented Martin Hoffmann and Kurt

Walker «For Brotherhood in Police

Service» medals.

The Ministry of Internal Affairs was

represented by Colonel Olzhas

Myrzabekov, Head of the Human

Resources Department of the Ministry of

Internal Affairs of the Republic of

Kazakhstan, Colonel Zhanat

Dilbarkhanova, Head of the Academy of

Management of the Ministry of Internal

Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan,

and Major General Umurzak

Bolsambekov, the Chairman of the

Council of Veterans of the

Ministry and the National Guard of the

Ministry of Internal Affairs of the

Republic of Kazakhstan.

IPA Connect , October 2026

International President Visits

IPA Kazakhstan

The official meeting was conducted in a

friendly atmosphere. Martin Hoffmann

briefed the participants on new areas of

practical experience exchange among

police officers, upcoming seminars, and

initiatives aimed at improving the

practical skills of young police officers

within the IPA. During the second part of

the meeting, representatives of the host

side demonstrated the training grounds

and classrooms used for the practical

training of students.

During his stay, Martin Hoffmann made

a proposal for the Kazakhstan IPA-

House in mountainous touristic areas.

He also noted that his visit was aimed at

promoting international police

cooperation, professional exchange,

and attracting active police officers to

join the IPA. As a closing to the visit,

Martin Hoffmann presented the medals

to the representatives of the Ministry of

International Affairs of the Republic of

Kazakhstan and the representatives of

IPA Kazakhstan in recognition of their

contribution to the work of the IPA. We

were pleased to participate in the

informative meetings, conducted with

the help of our guests.

Servo per Amikeco

G. Beristemov

President of the Kazakhstan Section

43

IPA Connect October 2026 — Page 44

Kazakhstan

Supporting the Next

Generation of Police Officers

Police veterans and the members of

the Kazakhstan National IPA Section

are actively involved in the process of

preparing Kazakhstani youth for

serving in the police force.

In July, Bogenbai Moldash, head of the

Regional Group of the Kazakhstan IPA

Section of Kyzylorda Region and the

master of sports in hand-to-hand

fighting, has been invited to join the

committee evaluating applicants’

physical fitness for admission to

higher education institutions of the

Ministry of Internal Affairs. In his closing

speech, he pointed out the

participants’ high level of physical

fitness wishing them success in their

studies.

G. Beristemov

President of the Kazakhstan Section

44

IPA Connect , October 2026

IPA Connect October 2026 — Page 45

New Zealand

Japan to Canada!

I joined the IPA ahead a holiday for

myself and partner, Bruce for my

daughter's wedding in Japan then onto

Canada. We never realised the

experience and opportunities of joining

IPA until this trip in May.

After first communicating on WhatsApp

with a Japanese contact , we were met

in Mt Fuji by Shintaro Mizuno,a traffic

officer from the Kanagawa prefecture,

Japan’s second largest city with a pop

of 3.9 mil. Other members from the

Kanagawa /Yokohama IPA also wanted

to meet with us but dates & timing

didn’t allow.

Shintaro ,took us to Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji

Sengen Shrine dating back to 110AD and

beneath Mt Fuji 🌁 surrounded by 1000

yr old cedars before an hour to the next

stop, a Nagi (eel) restaurant.

There’s nothing to envy about Shintaro‘s

shifts, working 24 hours then having the

next day off(repeat! )

We were extremely grateful to

Shintaro’s generosity taking his only day

off to drive 120ks to spend the day with

us.

A week later we were treated again by

another 5 officers(retired and working)

from Kameyama in the Mie Prefecture.

We were met at Sekicho, ( A protected

historical town dating back to 200 A.D.)

and driven to a local Traffic Police Base

to meet Highway Patrol officers, look at

their incredibly tidy, clean vehicles and

crash van.

IPA Connect , October 2026

Japanese do not use radar or lasers to

detect speed only a “pace check”

Officers are mostly 2up and again 24 hr

shifts sleeping for 3-4 hrs in early am.

They were very surprised to hear a

female officer would work alone at night

in a rural area such as my HP roster.

Bruce and I were then treated to lunch (

wouldn’t allow us to pay ) and gifts from

their Mie IPA , a kimono, chocolate, t-

shirts, pens later dropping us at

Kameyama Train Station.

45

IPA Connect October 2026 — Page 46

New Zealand cont

Before leaving NZ , we collected some

Japan to Canada!

relinquished police caps, badges from

shirts, police dog notebooks, pens ,

key-rings and little jars of New Zealand

manuka honey (almost half of my

check-in weight ) to reciprocate the

incredible generosity of the Japanese

IPA members.

It’s no secret to the Western world that

Japanese culture is very respectful,

courteous and hospitable but

experiencing it is something entirely

different. Bruce and I were blown away

by their generosity and kindness, they

made you feel so welcome and treated

almost like royalty.

Although we had no planned meetups

with Canadian police , they were

equally friendly and welcoming when

we accosted these beat cops on the

streets of Vancouver to swap badges

(retired but called back to service for

$200.000pa )

Nyanne Pollard

IPA New Zealand

46

IPA Connect , October 2026

IPA Connect October 2026 — Page 47

New Zealand

This year the IPA Young Police Officers

Seminar (YPOS) was hosted by IPA

Germany from the 2nd – 9th of August

2026. The seminar consisted of 52

serving police participants from 31

different nations.

I had the privilege of being selected as

the New Zealand IPA section

representative to attend the seminar this

year, staying at the LAFP Selm

(Landesamt für Ausbildung,

Fortbildungund

Personalangelegenheiten der Polizei

NRW) which is the main headquarters

and training centre for the police force

of North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany.

This year’s theme was “Future Meets

Training – Digitalisation in Police

Operational Training” and was a training

course that included high-level

presentations, realistic training sessions,

interactive workshops and discussion

formats.

The first full day began with an official

opening and welcome to the

programme. We received an overview of

the State Police of North Rhine-

Westphalia (NRW), followed by a

presentation and tour of the LAFP. The

afternoon focused on the structure and

work of the IPA, including its

commissions and sections. The day

concluded with a BBQ at the IPA House,

providing an opportunity for further

networking and international fellowship.

We had the chance to exchange

patches, pins and food items from our

respective home countries.

IPA Connect , October 2026

YPOS Germany

Tuesday focused on operational

policing and the challenges associated

with public order and riot policing. We

travelled to the Police Headquarters in

Bochum, where we received a

presentation and tour of the mounted

police unit, followed by a further

presentation and demonstration

involving the riot police unit. The

highlight for me was the

demonstration of their water cannon

truck which is used in riot situations. It

iscapable of holding 10,000 litres of

water with three mounted water

cannons and able to shoot water at a

pressure of 2,000 kPa. They allowed a

few volunteers from the course to be

sprayed which was a good cooldown

on a 35-degree day.

The programme moved into the areas

of policing innovation and international

cooperation. At the LZPD NRW in

Duisburg, we explored the digital

strategy and future direction of

policing in North Rhine-Westphalia. We

then travelled to Düsseldorf before

taking part in a guided tour of

Düsseldorf’s historic Altstadt. The day

concluded with dinner at a local

Brauhaus, giving us the chance to

experience some traditional German

culture and hospitality.

47

IPA Connect October 2026 — Page 48

New Zealand

Cont

YPOS Germany

Thursday provided an insight into

specialist policing capabilities,

beginning with a visit to the Federal

Police in Sankt Augustin. We received

presentations and demonstrations of

specialist units and their operational

capabilities, such as their air unit and

tactical groups. It was eye-opening to

compare the capability we have here in

New Zealand. We had a display of one of

their helicopters in action, and had the

chance to speak to the pilots. They have

over 90 helicopters in service, with the

pilots being sworn police officers.

Friday was centred around modern

policing technology and practical

training. We experienced virtual reality

technology as part of police training

through AXON. This was a chance to

train with the Taser 10 and a handgun

using VR which was a new experience.

We also took part in tactical handcuff

training with the US-based company

ASP. At the conclusion of the training, we

became ASP certified handcuff

instructors, all receiving a

complimentary pair of handcuffs and a

handcuff holder.

Saturday offered a change of pace, with

us travelling to Münster for a cultural

and sightseeing day. The group was

welcomed by the Mayor of Münster

before visiting the city’s famous “Hall of

Peace” and taking part in a guided city

tour.

IPA Connect , October 2026

A key point that stood out to me was

the saying by one of the speakers that

crime has no borders. After speaking

with the other participants, this

statement could not be truer, in the

sense that we all come from different

cultures and backgrounds, however still

face the same fundamental issues at

home with policing.

After attending YPOS, I have made

some great connections all over the

world with fellow colleagues, and look

forward to maintaining these

connections moving forward. Following

the seminar, I travelled to stay with one

of the German participants and his

partner at their home in Schwerin. This

is an example of one of the many

connections that was created during

the seminar.

A special thank you to the IPA Germany

section for being exceptional hosts and

to the IPA Germany President Philipp

Kurz for all of the hard work of putting

this exceptional course together.

I am also very grateful to the IPA NZ

section for the nomination to attend

and the funding that was provided to

make my attendance possible. I

encourage anyone that is eligible to

attend one of these events in the future

to put their name forward as it was truly

one of the best experiences I have had

in my policing career. Sharing my

experience with people at my local

station has piqued the interest of many

who were unaware of what the

International Police Association is and

the opportunities that are available.

Thank you,

Josh Watson

IPA New Zealand

48

IPA Connect October 2026 — Page 49

Pakistan

10th International IPA Friendship

Meeting - Selm-Bork, Germany

The 10th International IPA Friendship

Meeting, held in Selm-Bork, Germany,

from 7–16 August 2026, was a

memorable example of this spirit. The

event was organised by IPA Bork e.V., in

cooperation with the IPA Regional

Group North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW),

with dedicated efforts from the

organisers, including Mr. Konrad Bröker.

I had the honour of attending the

meeting with my wife, representing the

IPA Pakistan Section – Sindh Region-5.

Meeting IPA friends from different

countries provided an excellent

opportunity to represent Pakistan,

exchange experiences and learn about

different cultures and policing

practices.

FRIENDSHIP BEYOND THE MEETING HALL

The strength of the meeting was not

limited to its formal programme.

Friendships developed naturally

through shared meals, journeys,

conversations and cultural activities.

Police members from different

countries exchanged professional

experiences, discussed investigations

and policing practices, and shared

ideas about common challenges.

IPA Connect , October 2026

One Journey, Many Friendships

- IPA Friendship Beyond Borders

The International Police Association

(IPA) is much more than an

organisation of police officers. It is a

worldwide family built on friendship,

mutual respect, professional

cooperation and cultural

understanding. Its motto, “Servo per

Amikeco — Service Through

Friendship,” reflects the true spirit of

bringing police members from

different countries together.

The outdoor programme added another

special dimension. Participants travelled

together by bus to different destinations

and enjoyed a seaside excursion and a

cruise. Sharing food and spending time

together on the boat created wonderful

opportunities for international friendship.

Even the rain became part of our

memories. Participants continued

enjoying the activities, taking

photographs and sharing laughter. Visits

to cafés and local places also provided

relaxed opportunities to meet friends

and experience the local environment.

NATIONAL PRIDE AND INTERNATIONAL

UNITY

One of the most touching moments was

the presentation of the national

anthems of participating countries.

Representatives stood respectfully

whenever their country's anthem was

played. When the Pakistani national

anthem was played, I stood proudly with

my wife holding the Pakistani flag.

This was a powerful demonstration of

both national pride and international

respect. Every country was honoured,

while all participants remained united as

one IPA family.

49

IPA Connect October 2026 — Page 50

Pakistan Cont

Another memorable symbol was the

International Friendship Chain,

featuring locks bearing the names of

participating countries. Representatives

stood beside their respective country's

lock, including Pakistan. It beautifully

represented how different nations,

cultures and languages can be

connected through friendship.

A TREE FOR PAKISTAN — A LIVING

SYMBOL OF FRIENDSHIP

The Friendship Forest provided another

lasting symbol of the meeting. A tree

representing Pakistan became part of

the forest alongside those of other

participating countries.

Like a tree, friendship needs roots, care

and time to grow. The Friendship Forest

therefore represents relationships that

can continue to flourish long after the

meeting has ended.

GIFTS AND PROFESSIONAL EXCHANGE

The exchange of gifts and souvenirs

was another memorable part of the

gathering. Shirts, caps, pens, pins,

badges, shields and other souvenirs

were exchanged as tokens of friendship.

Pakistan also received a friendship

shield as a symbol of international

goodwill.

Beyond these cultural exchanges, the

meeting provided valuable

opportunities for professional

interaction.

IPA Connect , October 2026

ONE JOURNEY, MANY

FRIENDSHIPS — IPA FRIENDSHIP

BEYOND BORDERS

Members discussed policing,

investigations and professional

experiences, demonstrating how IPA can

encourage learning and cooperation

across borders.

FROM GERMANY TO A JOURNEY OF

CULTURE AND FAITH

My journey continued after Germany. My

wife and I travelled to Istanbul, Türkiye,

where we spent two nights and visited

Topkapı Palace and its renowned Sacred

Relics collection.

We then travelled to Madinah, where we

visited the Prophet's Mosque and offered

our salutations during Rabi' al-Awwal.

From Madinah, we travelled to Makkah,

performed Umrah and later returned via

Jeddah to Karachi.

A MESSAGE TO IPA MEMBERS IN

PAKISTAN

My experience has strengthened my

belief that IPA members across Pakistan

should make greater use of international

opportunities. I encourage members

from all regions to participate in

International Friendship Meetings,

Congresses, cultural programmes and

professional events, and to form travel

groups so that Pakistani IPA members

can participate together and build

stronger international relationships.

Every IPA international event is more

than a journey. It is an opportunity to

represent Pakistan, learn, create lifelong

friendships and strengthen the global

IPA family.

The 10th International IPA Friendship

Meeting reminded me that although we

may speak different languages and

belong to different cultures, we share

one powerful common language:

friendship.

50

IPA Pakistan

IPA Connect October 2026 — Page 51

South Africa

International Police Association

South African National Women’s

Day Celebration

Friday, 14 August 2026, Pretoria

The International Police Association

South Africa (IPA SA) proudly celebrated

women, friendship, empowerment and

leadership at its National Women’s Day

Celebration, held on 14 August 2026 at

the historic IPA Johann Rissik Guest

House in Pretoria.

Organised in close partnership with the

Tshwane Metropolitan Police

Department (TMPD), the event honoured

the courageous women of 1956 whose

unity and determination helped pave

the way for modern gender equality in

South Africa. Under the theme

“Empowering Women in Law

Enforcement”, the gathering provided a

meaningful platform to celebrate the

important role women play in

leadership, decision-making,

community safety, and transformation

within the law-enforcement sector.

Opening and welcome were delivered

by the Program Director and Master of

Ceremonies (MC), Ms. Dineo Manzini

(SAPS), which was followed by the

National Anthem, performed by the solo

artist,

IPA Connect , October 2026

Ms. Zintle Mbiyoza of the South African

Police Service (SAPS), accompanied by

the TMPD Band and Choir.

The opening address was delivered by

the President of the International Police

Association South African Section, Mr

Hendrik Vos (Vossie) after which

musical interludes and performances

started this amazing day.

51

IPA Connect October 2026 — Page 52

South Africa Cont

Mr Vos’ powerful message was closed

by his final words to all ladies present,

by saying that they must stand tall, be

proud of who you are, be proud of what

you do, support the woman beside you,

make a difference and never forget:

“You are stronger than the challenges

you face! You are more influential than

your rank suggests! And your legacy

will live in the lives you touch!”

The celebration was further enriched by

a series of inspiring messages delivered

by the guest speakers from various

fields, who shared powerful words of

encouragement, motivation and hope

with all women in attendance.

Each speaker highlighted the important

and evolving role that women play in

society - as leaders, as mothers, as

caregivers, as professionals, mentors

and agents of change.

Their messages encouraged women to

recognise their own strength, embrace

their unique abilities and never

underestimate the positive impact they

can have within their families,

workplaces and communities.

IPA Connect , October 2026

The speakers also addressed the

importance of self-belief, resilience and

supporting one another. A particularly

meaningful message focused on the

importance of women uplifting other

women by creating spaces of

encouragement, friendship and mutual

respect, women can help one another

grow and become stronger together!

All guest speakers reminded the women

that through empowerment, they can

support and give opportunities for

themselves, and other women, to

flourish, transform and uplift

communities and societies.

Keynote addresses were delivered by

distinguished leaders, including the

SAPS Major General Emily Mantsi and

TMPD Chief of Police, Commissioner

Yolande Faro, who encouraged women

officers to stand firm in leadership,

support one another and continue

building an inclusive, representative

law-enforcement environment.

The celebration highlighted the

#SheisIPA initiative, which recognises

and empowers women within the

International Police Association and the

broader law-enforcement community.

The initiative celebrates women as

officers, leaders, colleagues, mothers,

spouses, mentors, protectors and

friends.

52

IPA Connect October 2026 — Page 53

South Africa Cont

A Certificate of Recognition was

presented to Jacques Loots, IPA SA Office

Manager and Travel Secretary, for

initiating and hosting this ground-

breaking, first-of-its-kind South African

National Women’s Day event in support

of the #SheisIPA project. The recognition

also marked a historic moment, as he

became the first male recipient to

receive the certificate under the

#HeForShe banner.

The day ended with a powerful

message from IPA SA National

Chairperson for Welfare and Wellness,

Ms. Elbie Gore, in which she highlighted

her gratitude, friendship and a shared

commitment to continue recognising,

supporting and empowering women,

who serve their organisations, families

and communities.

IPA Connect , October 2026

Muriel Maluleke, member of the LOC,

rendered the vote of thanks, after which

everyone adjourned to a high tea

spread, fit for the queens attending the

day and a delightful networking

opportunity between the respective

agencies in attendance.

“It was an absolute privilege to bring

this vision to life and honour the

remarkable women in policing who

serve our communities every day,” said

Jacques Loots, LOC Chairperson, IPA SA

Office Manager and Travel Secretary.

He thanked the IPA South Africa NEC, the

Local Organising Committee (LOC) and

everyone who contributed to making the

celebration a resounding success.

The 2026 IPA South Africa National

Women’s Day Celebration

demonstrated remarkable cooperation

between agencies, with proud

representation from South African Police

Service, Tshwane Metropolitan Police

Department, Johannesburg Metropolitan

Police Department, Ekhuruleni

Metropolitan Police Department, Durban

Metropolitan Police Service, and Nelson

Mandela Bay Metropolitan Police

Department.

53

IPA Connect October 2026 — Page 54

South Africa Cont

The central message echoed across all

speakers, captured powerfully in the

words of Major General Mantsi:

“But let us be clear: women do not need

to prove that they belong in law

enforcement. We belong because we

are professionals, because we are

capable, and because we have earned

our place through service and sacrifice.”

This special occasion will be

remembered as a day of friendship,

appreciation, empowerment, and unity.

It reminded all present that when

women support women, and when

organisations recognise and empower

their members, stronger communities

and lasting friendships are built.

IPA Connect , October 2026

The celebration concluded with a

delightful high tea, offering every

woman the chance to network, connect,

and forge new bonds of friendship.

Servo per Amikeco – Service Through

Friendship.

Compiled by:

IPA SA National Editor

Natasha Calitz

54

IPA Connect October 2026 — Page 55

Ukraine

The new leadership of the Ukrainian

Section of the IPA has identified its

priorities: supporting those who defend

Ukraine, shaping a new generation of

Section members, and expanding

international cooperation.

On July 23, 2026, the XIV Reporting and

Electoral National Congress of the

Ukrainian Section of the International

Police Association (IPA) was held in Kyiv.

For the organisation, this was not simply

another reporting forum. The Congress

took place under martial law, against

the backdrop of a difficult period in the

life of the Ukrainian state, while at the

same time it was intended to determine

a new management structure for the

Section and practical tasks for the

coming years.

The delegates elected new leadership

and identified priorities aimed at

strengthening the Section, developing

its membership, supporting its

members, and further involving the

Ukrainian Section in all areas of the

international IPA movement.

The Congress was attended by Acting

Head of the National Police of Ukraine

Maksym Tsutskiridze, who conveyed

greetings to the participants from

Minister of Internal Affairs of Ukraine Ivan

Vygivskyi.

IPA Connect , October 2026

Ukrainian Section of the

International Police

Association Enters a New

Stage of Development

In his address, the Minister described the

Congress as an opportunity to “jointly

outline the future of the organization,”

which brings law enforcement officers

together around professionalism,

mutual respect, and international

partnership.

The message also emphasized the role

of Ukrainian law enforcement officers in

countering aggression and the

importance of international solidarity for

Ukraine. For the Ukrainian Section of the

IPA, this is an important confirmation of

the organisation’s social and

professional significance in wartime.

The most important personnel outcome

of the Congress was the renewal of the

leadership team.

Ivan Kutsyk, Head of the Patronage

Service of the Minister of Internal Affairs

of Ukraine, Police General of the First

Rank, was elected the new President of

the Ukrainian Section of the IPA.

Priority attention will be given to family

members of those who were killed,

wounded, or became disabled while

performing service or combat duties.

Supporting the children, parents, wives,

and husbands of Section members

must be an integral part of this work

55

IPA Connect October 2026 — Page 56

Ukraine Cont

Therefore, for the Ukrainian Section,

“Servo per Amikeco — Service Through

Friendship” is not a declaration. It

means, among other things, a readiness

to remain alongside an IPA member and

their family during the most difficult

periods of life.

For this reason, the Ukrainian Section will

continue developing social,

humanitarian, and charitable projects

aimed at supporting IPA members and

their families, and will seek to involve

international partners in such initiatives.

The second key area of activity for the

new leadership will be expanding the

Ukrainian Section of the IPA.

The development of membership will

not be limited to police officers alone.

The Ukrainian Section sees prospects for

broader involvement of representatives

of the Ministry of Internal Affairs system

— in particular, the National Guard of

Ukraine, the State Border Guard Service

of Ukraine, the State Emergency Service

of Ukraine, as well as other structures

and professionals who meet the IPA

membership requirements.

IPA Connect , October 2026

Ukrainian Section of the

International Police

Association Enters a New

Stage of Development

At the same time, the Section is

interested in developing cooperation

with representatives of other law

enforcement agencies of the state in

accordance with international rules and

national legislation.

The task is to build a broad professional

community united not only by a

common profession, but also by the

values of mutual respect, support, and

friendship.

The more professionals join the Section,

the more opportunities will open up for

professional exchange, joint projects,

training, international contacts, and

mutual support.

This is precisely the approach of the IPA

at the global level: developing an

international network, exchanging

knowledge and experience, professional

development, and creating lasting ties

among members of national sections.

The full-scale war has created a unique

body of experience among Ukrainian

law enforcement officers.

56

IPA Connect October 2026 — Page 57

Ukraine Cont

This includes experience in performing

official duties during missile and artillery

attacks, evacuating civilians, working in

de-occupied territories, documenting

war crimes, searching for missing

persons, responding to the

consequences of large-scale

destruction, and interacting with military

personnel, rescuers, medical workers,

and other services.

At the same time, Ukrainian law

enforcement officers continue to

perform their primary tasks of ensuring

the safety of citizens, combating crime,

investigating offenses, and protecting

human rights.

This experience can be useful to our

colleagues from other countries. The

Ukrainian Section plans to expand

professional exchange through

conferences, training programs,

international meetings, professional

visits, and direct contacts among

members of national sections.

World Police & Fire Games, Perth Australia 2027

IPA Connect , October 2026

Ukrainian Section of the

International Police

Association Enters a New

Stage of Development

Ultimately, the Congress gave the

Ukrainian Section of the IPA an

opportunity to openly outline the

existing problems and shortcomings in

the organisation’s work, as well as to

adopt a corresponding resolution.

The new team now faces the practical

task of turning the adopted decisions

into systematic day-to-day work:

strengthening regional branches,

increasing transparency, more actively

involving serving police officers,

supporting those who defend the state,

while at the same time preserving the

international character and professional

solidarity of the International Police

Association.

It is by these results that it will be

possible to assess not only the

outcomes of the XIV Congress, but also

the new stage of development of the

Ukrainian Section of the IPA.

Ivan Kutsyk

President IPA Ukraine

You’re invited to the games - W’A’s

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8,500 athletes of all skill levels standing

Shoulder to Shoulder both on and off the

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Join us from 12-21 March 2027. All police

officers, police auillary officers and police

staff are eligable to compete and

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57

IPA Connect October 2026 — Page 58

Ukraine

During his official trip to the United

States, Yevhen Harkavtsev, a member

of the National Executive Committee of

the Ukrainian Section of the IPA and a

combat veteran, held a working

meeting with Joe Johnson, President of

the American Section of the IPA.

The meeting provided an opportunity

to communicate directly about the

activities of the two national sections,

exchange professional experience, and

discuss prospects for further

cooperation.

For the Ukrainian Section of the IPA,

international cooperation is of

particular importance. In the context of

the full-scale war, Ukrainian law

enforcement officers continue to

perform their professional duties and

are gaining unique practical

experience of working in wartime

conditions.

It is important not only to share this

experience with colleagues abroad,

but also to combine it with

international practices, learn from the

experience of law enforcement officers

in other countries, and use it for the

professional development of Ukrainian

police officers.

It is through such direct contacts that

opportunities are created for

professional exchange, joint training,

the implementation of international

initiatives, and the development of

new areas of cooperation.

IPA Connect , October 2026

Service Through Friendship:

The Ukrainian and American

Sections of IPA Develop

Cooperation

The meeting between Yevhen

Harkavtsev and Joe Johnson became

another step toward strengthening

cooperation between the Ukrainian and

American Sections of the IPA. It is

important that such contacts go

beyond formal communication — they

create a foundation for continuous

dialogue, mutual support, and the

exchange of experience.

The Ukrainian Section is open to

cooperation with international

colleagues, ready to share its own

experience while also adopting the best

professional practices of other

countries.

After all, it is through interaction,

professional exchange, and personal

communication that the main principle

of the International Police Association is

realized — “Servo per Amikeco” —

“Service Through Friendship.”

Ivan Kutsyk,

President of the Ukrainian Section

58

IPA Connect October 2026 — Page 59

💙 BLUE WALKS – PINK CAUSE 💗

Every step counts. Every voice matters.

This October, the Socio-Cultural

Commission and the Professional

Commission of IEB, through the IPA

Sports Project and the #SHEisIPA

Project, are joining forces to support

BLUE WALKS – PINK CAUSE.

Our goal is to put a spotlight on

physical activity, health and breast

cancer awareness — and to encourage

our IPA family around the world to take

part.

Please see the event page on the

international Website on how you can

get involved

https://ipa-

international.org/events/blue-walks-

pink-cause/

IPA Connect , October 2026

💗 Awareness is for everyone

Breast cancer can affect both women

and men. That is why these invitations

are equally important for our male and

female members. Take the opportunity

to learn more, raise awareness and

encourage others to do the same.

There is increasing evidence that

healthy lifestyle choices and regular

physical activity can help reduce the

risk of breast cancer. Staying active,

maintaining a healthy weight and

making positive lifestyle choices can all

contribute to better health.

For people who have experienced

breast cancer, regular, moderate

physical activity can also be an

important part of a healthy lifestyle.

So, this October, let's move together,

learn together and support one

another.

💙 **Blue Walks – Pink Cause** 💗

🚶 **One walk. One step. One

conversation at a time.**

**Join us. Be active. Raise awareness.

Every step counts!**

#BlueWalks #PinkCause #SHEisIPA

#IPA #BreastCancerAwareness

#PhysicalActivity #HealthyLifestyle

#EveryStepCounts

There are also two Webinars to join,

details on the first of these are below

59

IPA Connect October 2026 — Page 60

Upcoming Events

First Mallorca Padel Tournament

IPA Spain, on behalf of its Balearic Islands

Region, invites you to participate in the

First Mallorca Padel Tournament, to be

held in Palma de Mallorca from

8-11 October 2026

More Information

IPA Japan Seminar 2026

IPA Japan’s 2026 Seminar in Osaka, 11–14

October, offers participants international

perspectives, practical knowledge and

skills in cooperation, investigation and

working effectively on the global stage.

More Information

IPA Connect , October 2026

View all events on our website:

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

Note: The deadline for registration for

some events may have passed

IPA North Macedonia – IPA

MEGDAN 2026 International

Shooting Tournament

IPA MEGDAN 2026 brings IPA members

together for an international weekend of

sport, friendship and fellowship in Strumica,

North Macedonia, from 15–18 October 2026.

More Information

th

IPA Sri Lanka 69 World Congress &

FriendshipWeek2026

IPA World Congress 2026 brings National

Section representatives together in

Colombo, Sri Lanka, from 20–23 October

2026, followed by Friendship Week from 20–

31 October 2026, open to IPA members

from around the world.

More Information

60

IPA Connect October 2026 — Page 61

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 , October 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

61

IPA Connect October 2026 — Page 62

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

IPA Connect , October 2026

2027 Seminar Programme

Coming Soon!

Keep an eye out for the 2027

programme, coming very soon! Start

planning your next learning opportunity

and look forward to another year of

inspiring seminars, new knowledge and

international connections at IBZ

Gimborn.

62

IPA Connect October 2026 — Page 63

OCTOBER

IPA

CONNECT

2026

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

63