strategy, outlining the key direction and priorities for the next two years. Discover the updates
on our website and see page 5 for further details.
IPA Hymn - Behind the Notes
A proud part of IPA history and identity is the official
IPA Hymn which is played at all official ceremonies
and symbolises our association. The hymn inspires
pride and reminds us of our shared heritage. The
version currently used was recorded and provided
by an orchestra in Israel.
Read more on page 8, where IPA Israel guides us
through the story behind the music.
March 2026
Executive Board has refreshed the IPA
IPA Newsletter March 2026 — Page 2
Table of Contents
Introduction from
International President 03
Martin Hoffmann
IPA Strategy 2023–2027 –
Mid-Term Review and 05
Looking Ahead
Gender-Responsive
Policing in Peacekeeping
07
- Removing Barriers;
Empowering Women
IPA Israel - IPA Hymn
08
The Story Behind The
Music Notes
70 Years of Friendship
and Service: IPA
10
Switzerland Celebrates a
Remarkable Anniversary
in Zurich
An Experience of the
Kazakhstan Section
12
within the UN Campaign
“16 Days of Activism
against Violence”
We Ask...
Claudio Chiappucci,
14
Italian IPA’s cycling
champion
www.ipa-international.org
March 2026
IPA Belgian Officers
16
Participate in IPA USA
Green Bay Wisconsin
Seminar
Arthur Troop Scholarship
18
Chris Mace - IPA Canada
Thailand - a special IPA
21
moment in Hua Hin for
IPA UK Members
IPA Canarias International
22
Football Tournament 2025
#SHEisIPA Finding
Friendship, Leadership, and
24
Purpose Through IPA
Upcoming Events
25
Gimborn Seminars
27
Marketing
28
2
IPA Newsletter March 2026 — Page 3
INTERNATIONAL POLICE ASSOCIATION
Introduction from International PresidentINTRODUCTION FROM
Martin Hoffmann
INTERNATIONAL PRESIDENT MA
This approach is now producing visible results. In
November 2025, the first three-part online seminar
in Spanish was successfully delivered, expanding
professional
audience.
outside
Moldova. This represents an important milestone.
Professional education is being expanded beyond
traditional
recognised centre of excellence.
Progress
accompanied
November 2025, the new international website went
online,
designed specifically to support Sections in their
daily work and communication. This development
Martin Hoffmann
strengthens
International President
structured
Association.
Dear IPA members, dear friends, At the same time, growth remains a central priority.
However, growth must not be reduced to numbers
When the International Executive Board (IEB) met alone.
in Nottingham in 2023 to develop the Strategy recruitment
2023–2027, the focus was on ambition, presence.
responsibility and the long-term future of our increasing
Association. At that time, a foundation was laid. international cooperation and ensuring that the IPA
Today, halfway through this term, tangible remains attractive to future generations of police
progress can be seen. officers.
As part of this ongoing commitment, the IEB What continues to motivate me in this role is seeing
conducted a thorough review of the strategy in how committed so many IPA officials around the
December 2025. This was not a routine exercise, world are, and with what sincerity and dedication
but a serious evaluation of whether strategic they represent the ideals of our Association. During
intentions are being translated into concrete my visits and meetings across different continents, I
action. A strategy document has no value if it am repeatedly reminded that the true strength of
remains on paper. It must guide decisions, the IPA lies not in structures or documents, but in
shape priorities and lead to measurable the
progress. conviction into this organisation.
www.ipa-international.org
March 2026
dialogue to a broader international
In March 2026, the first IBZ seminar
Gimborn will take place in Chișinău,
structures while Gimborn remains the
in professional development is
by necessary modernisation. In
including a dedicated download area
accessibility, transparency and the
exchange of information across the
The affiliation of new Sections and the
of new members strengthen global
Sustainable growth also means
professional relevance, enhancing
people who invest their time, energy and
3
IPA Newsletter March 2026 — Page 4
INTERNATIONAL POLICE ASSOCIATION
Introduction from International PresidentINTRODUCTION FROM
Martin Hoffmann
INTERNATIONAL PRESIDENT MA
This commitment is visible across many regions.
Following the IEB meeting in Japan in 2025, it was
encouraging to observe how dynamic and
active the IPA in Japan has become. These
developments demonstrate that regional
cooperation and national leadership are driving
visible momentum within our global network.
A similar spirit was evident two weeks ago in
Eswatini, where representatives of all African IPA
Sections met for the African Chapter meeting.
The exchange was highly productive and clearly
focused on strengthening cooperation across
the continent. Concrete steps have now been
initiated to develop a structured strategy for the
further development of the IPA in Africa,
enhancing coordination and unlocking the
Martin Hoffmann
considerable potential within the African
International President
Sections.
Such developments underline the global
responsibility of the IPA. As the largest policing
association in the world, the IPA can take pride
in its reach. Nevertheless, size alone is not
sufficient. Respect, credibility and
professionalism must define the Association.
Firm adherence to a non-political position
remains essential. The task of the Association is
to build bridges between police officers across
borders, systems and cultures. In a complex
and sometimes divided world, this bridging
function is more important than ever. Being
non-political does not mean being indifferent
to the principles of rule of law and human
dignity that define our profession. It means
safeguarding independence while maintaining
dialogue.
With this foundation, attention must also turn to
the future. Looking ahead to 2027, the direction
remains clear. Strengthening our international
profile will require continued and coordinated
marketing efforts.
www.ipa-international.org
March 2026
In parallel, further digital development is
underway. A renewed initiative has been
launched to advance the international IPA App
and to introduce a digital membership card.
These steps are intended to modernise internal
processes and improve connectivity between
members worldwide. Technology is not an
objective in itself. It is a practical tool to connect
members more effectively, simplify participation
and support sustainable growth.
None of this progress would be possible without
the dedication of the Sections worldwide. Sincere
appreciation is extended to all Sections that are
working actively and successfully at local and
national level.
I would also like to express my sincere
appreciation to my colleagues in the IEB — Oliver,
Jože, Kikis, Jean Pierre, Christos, Diego and Clive
— as well as to Hana and Lisa in the International
Administration Centre, and to Michael, our Legal
Adviser, for their professionalism, reliability and
excellent cooperation. Effective teamwork at
international level is essential for the stability
and credibility of the IPA, and I am truly grateful
to be able to work alongside such a dedicated
and committed team in serving our Association.
Lasting success is never accidental. It is
achieved through collective effort, responsible
leadership and unwavering commitment to the
values of the Association.
Together, the next chapter of the IPA is being
shaped with clarity, confidence and unity.
Martin
Martin Hoffmann
International President
4
IPA Newsletter March 2026 — Page 5
INTERNATIONAL POLICE ASSOCIATION March 2026
IPA Strategy 2023–2027 – Mid-Term Review
and Looking Ahead
During the mid-term review meeting held in Lapland
in December 2025, the International Executive Board
(IEB) carried out a detailed and structured review of
the IPA Strategy 2023–2027. This was an important
milestone, allowing time to reflect on progress
made during the first half of the term and to ensure
the Strategy continues to provide clear direction
and confidence for the future of the IPA and its
members.
From the outset, the Strategy was designed as a
living framework rather than a static document. Its
purpose is to help guide the IPA in a constantly
changing environment, while ensuring we remain
focused on what matters most — our members,
their needs and the long-term strength of our
Association. The review was shaped by experiences
from the first two years of the term, alongside
feedback and discussions with members, Sections
and IPA organisations around the world.
The overall direction and core values of the Strategy
remain unchanged. However, several areas have
been refined to ensure continued relevance and
effectiveness.
One important focus for the coming years is digital development. Work will begin to explore the
potential creation of a new international IPA mobile application, aimed at improving communication,
services and connectivity for members worldwide.
Marketing and communication have also been strengthened as key strategic priorities. A clearer and
more coordinated approach will help explain the value of IPA membership, strengthen our international
profile and ensure members better understand the opportunities, services and benefits available to
them.
As part of the review, the IEB also looked beyond the current term and considered where the IPA should
stand by 2031. This forward-looking perspective helps provide stability and certainty for members, while
ensuring the Association continues to evolve in line with professional and societal changes.
www.ipa-international.org 5
IPA Newsletter March 2026 — Page 6
INTERNATIONAL POLICE ASSOCIATION
IPA Strategy 2023–2027 – Mid-Term Review
and Looking Ahead
The updated Strategy, published at the beginning of 2026, reflects these shared ambitions. Through
the continued engagement and professionalism of members at all levels, the IPA will continue to
develop in a sustainable, responsible and forward-looking way.
International Executive Board (IEB)
www.ipa-international.org
March 2026
Ultimately, the success of the Strategy
depends on how it is put into practice across
the entire Association. The real strength of
the IPA lies in its members — in their
professionalism, commitment and
willingness to contribute to a shared future.
By continuing to work closely with members
and Sections, the IEB aims to ensure the IPA
develops in a way that reflects what
members need, expect and value most.
View the Strategy
Here
6
IPA Newsletter March 2026 — Page 7
INTERNATIONAL POLICE ASSOCIATION
Gender-Responsive Policing in Peacekeeping -
Removing Barriers; Empowering Women
To ensure the security of Mali’s Presidential election in July 2018, the UN Mission in Mali, MINUSMA, deployed a military
and police presence throughout the country. Here, a UN Police officer from Cameroon talks with a local official outside a
polling station in Mopti. Credit: UN Photo/Harandane Dicko
Through targeted support, the EIF enables national police and security institutions to develop an
evidence base and implement gender-responsive policies and practices. This may include revising
BUSINESS INNON
recruitment and selection frameworks, improving infrastructure to ensure safe and gender-sensitive
accommodate and facilities, and integrating gender
activities are led and implemented by T/PCCs with EIF funding supporting nationally owned reform
processes. As a result, police contingents are better
community members, including women and girls.
Strengthening gender-responsive policing is not only about numbers, it is about capacity, readiness
and institutional change. The EIF supports PCCs in strengthening capacities and building specialised
skills to address gender-based violence, enhance
standards. These efforts contribute to more inclusive and effective peace operations, reinforcing theLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing
Women, Peace and Security agenda and promoting sustainable peace. Some examples of EIF-fundedelit. Nunc enim arcu, mollis ut ullamcorper ut, congue
projects can be found on their website: sit amet neque.
·Fiji Police Force Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing
·Jordan Public Security Directorate elit. Nunc enim arcu, mollis ut ullamcorper ut,
·Senegal National Police congue sit amet neque.
·Zambia Police Service
For more information on the Fund, visit www.elsiefund.org
Oliver Hoffmann
Chairperson International Relations Commission
www.ipa-international.org
March 2026
Police services are critical to effective
peacekeeping and post-conflict
stabilisation. Yet, women remain
underrepresented in these roles, often due
to systemic barriers such as restrictive
recruitment practices, inadequate facilities,
and limited career development
opportunities. The Elsie Initiative Fund (EIF)
supports Troop and Police-Contributing
Countries (T/PCCs) to United Nations Peace
Operations to identify and dismantle
obstacles that hinder women’s full, equal
and meaningful participation in policing
within peace operations.
perspectives into training curricula. These
equipped to respond to the needs of all
community trust, and uphold human rights
or follow on LinkedIn and X.
7
IPA Newsletter March 2026 — Page 8
INTERNATIONAL POLICE ASSOCIATION March 2026
INTRODUCTION FROMIPA Israel - IPA Hymn
The Story Behind The Music Notes
INTERNATIONAL PRESIDENT MA
Following the celebrations of the IPA’s 75th
anniversary, IPA Israel tell the story of the IPA
hymn.
As we play the hymn at every official and
unofficial event, it is worth returning to the
original recording and the video presenting the
IPA hymn and the march.
In 2008, at the International Cultural
Commission (ICC), headed by the late George, I
proposed recording the IPA hymn by the Israel
Police Orchestra, as part of the commission
projects.
An excellent and welcome idea, since at every international event, searches were conducted for the
notes and music, and few knew the IPA march.
Sounds simple, but the problems started to arise when the IAC had difficulty finding the original sheet
of the music. When it was found and sent to me, it became clear that in order for a police orchestra to
perform the hymn, an orchestral arrangement was needed.
In fact, it was necessary to prepare new sheet of the music with the orchestral arrangement.
The music was composed by A. Couatte and the IPA march was composed by M. Legrand
and D. Dondeyne but it was only the music notes.
The orchestral arrangement, as it appears in the new sheet of the music that was transferred to the
IAC, was performed by the assistant conductor of the Israel Police Orchestra, Rafi Halbertal.
Now that there are scores, there is an orchestral arrangement, there is an orchestra, how do you
make a professional recording?
To record a large orchestra, you need a professional company that specializes in this type of
recording. This means a microphone next to each instrument and a recording system that can
handle dozens of microphones at the same time.
www.ipa-international.org 8
IPA Newsletter March 2026 — Page 9
INTERNATIONAL POLICE ASSOCIATION March 2026
INTRODUCTION FROMIPA Israel - IPA Hymn
The Story Behind The Music Notes
INTERNATIONAL PRESIDENT MA
No recording studio was found that could accommodate the entire orchestra and equipment, and
the solution was to use a theater hall used for musical performances and opera. The ICC did not have
the budget to finance a large expense of the type required to make the recording.
The budget ultimately came from the IPA Israel section. The recording was made in 2008.
At the same time as the recording, a professional camera crew documented the recording, so that
not only the music but also the video could be used.
A CD with the music was produced and distributed to all IPA sections around the world. At the same
time, a DVD with the music and video was prepared, which was also distributed to all sections
around the world.
Today, the recording in MP3 format is available to anyone who plays the hymn at IPA events around
the world. At the same time, and in light of the demand of many members around the world, the
video clip with the hymn and the march was uploaded to YouTube and is also available to anyone
interested in playing the hymn.
So for anyone wondering who plays the
IPA hymn at any official event, the
recording is by the Israel Police Orchestra
from 2008. The initiative was from ICC. The
notes and orchestral arrangement are
reserved at IAC for the benefit of each
orchestra.
The link to the video on Youtube:
View Here
Dr Eran Israel
Secretary General
IPA Israel
www.ipa-international.org 9
IPA Newsletter March 2026 — Page 10
INTERNATIONAL POLICE ASSOCIATION
70 Years of Friendship and Service: IPA SwitzerlandINTRODUCTION FROM
Celebrates a Remarkable Anniversary in Zurich
INTERNATIONAL PRESIDENT MA
The program began with a visit to the renowned FIFA Museum in Zurich. Participants enjoyed an
inspiring journey through the history of international football, discovering stories of passion, teamwork,
and global unity – values that resonate strongly with the IPA community.
A further highlight was the visit to the City Police Zürich. Guests were given exclusive insights into the
daily work, structures, and operational challenges of one of Switzerland’s largest municipal police
forces. The exchange fostered professional dialogue
members.
The celebrations culminated in a festive gala
evening at Circus “Conelli”, where approximately
500 guests gathered in an elegant and vibrant
setting. Representatives from more than 20
sections, distinguished guests, partners, and
friends of the association came together to
honour the past, celebrate the present, and look
confidently toward the future. The evening was
marked by heartfelt speeches, cultural moments,
and a strong sense of unity and pride.
The 70th anniversary was not only a celebration
of history but also a testament to the strength
and relevance of the IPA network. In a world
facing increasing challenges, international
cooperation and mutual understanding remain
more important than ever.
www.ipa-international.org
March 2026
Zurich, November 2025 – The Swiss
Section of the International Police
Association (IPA Switzerland) proudly
celebrated its 70th anniversary at the
end of November 2025 in Zurich. The
milestone event brought together
more than 20 sections from across
Switzerland and abroad, underlining
the association’s enduring
commitment to friendship, solidarity,
and professional exchange among
police officers worldwide.
and strengthened collegial bonds among
10
IPA Newsletter March 2026 — Page 11
INTERNATIONAL POLICE ASSOCIATION March 2026
70 Years of Friendship and Service: IPA SwitzerlandINTRODUCTION FROM
Celebrates a Remarkable Anniversary in Zurich
INTERNATIONAL PRESIDENT MA
IPA Switzerland expresses its sincere gratitude to all participants, partner sections, and especially to its
generous sponsors, whose support made this memorable celebration possible. Their contribution
reflects a shared belief in the values of friendship, cooperation, and service that have guided the
association for seven decades.
As IPA Switzerland enters its eighth decade, it does so with renewed energy and a clear mission: to
continue fostering friendship among police officers around the world and to strengthen professional
collaboration for the benefit of society.
Servo per Amikeco – Service through Friendship.
JP Allet
President IPA Switzerland
www.ipa-international.org 11
IPA Newsletter March 2026 — Page 12
INTERNATIONAL POLICE ASSOCIATION March 2026
An Experience of the Kazakhstan Section within the UNINTRODUCTION FROM
Campaign “16 Days of Activism against Violence”
INTERNATIONAL PRESIDENT MA
Violence against women and children
remains one of the most serious
global social challenges.
Psychological pressure, bullying,
aggressive behavior, and hidden
forms of violence have long-term
consequences for personal
development, emotional well-being,
and social stability. Children, as the
most vulnerable group, require
special attention and protection.
Recognizing this responsibility, the
Kazakhstan Section of the
International Police Association (IPA),
in partnership with the Republican
Public Association of Lawyers and
Mediators “Human and Law,”
implemented a preventive project in
the city of Almaty in 2025. The
initiative formed part of national and
international efforts to counter
violence and was aligned with
participation in the UN global
campaign “16 Days of Activism
against Gender-Based Violence.”
The project established Safety
Centers in general education
schools across Almaty, aimed at
creating a non-violent educational
environment.
The project established Safety Centers in general education schools across Almaty, aimed at creating
a non-violent educational environment.
www.ipa-international.org 12
IPA Newsletter March 2026 — Page 13
INTERNATIONAL POLICE ASSOCIATION
An Experience of the Kazakhstan Section within the UNINTRODUCTION FROM
Campaign “16 Days of Activism against Violence”
INTERNATIONAL PRESIDENT MA
In their addresses, they highlighted the importance of strong par
police, and civil society in building a safe educational en
educational institutions in international anti-violence initiatives, including the UN campa
Activism against Violence.”
Members of the Kazakhstan Section of the IPA played a key role in the project, demonstrating a modern,
humanistic approach to policing. Police officers served as social partners, mentors, and mediators
rather than punitive force, helping to build trust among children and parents and to challenge the
stereotype of the police as an exclusively enforcement-oriented institution.
During the UN campaign period, preventive
activities in schools were significantly intensified.
More than 800 participants — students, parents,
teachers, and police officers took part in
thematic lessons, dialogue sessions, and open
discussions designed to raise awareness of the
unacceptability of physical and psychological
violence. As a result, a local school-based
initiative became part of a broader global
movement for safety and peace.
The experience gained in Almaty demonstrates
schools, families, civil society, and the police are an effective tool for preventing conflicts, bullying, and
violence. Participation in international campaigns
educational impact.
This experience confirms that similar initiatives can be successfully adapted and implemented in other
regions and countries through international professional cooperation.
Ultimately, only by working together can we change the situation.
Galym Beristemov
President of the Kazakhstan Section IPA
www.ipa-international.org
March 2026
tnerships between schools, families,
vironment and stressed the value of involving
ign “16 Days of
that coordinated preventive initiatives involving
enhanced the project’s public relevance and
13
IPA Newsletter March 2026 — Page 14
INTERNATIONAL POLICE ASSOCIATION
INTRODUCTION FROMWe Ask...
Claudio Chiappucci, Italian IPA’s cycling champion
INTERNATIONAL PRESIDENT MA
A valuable opportunity to interview cycling
champion Claudio Chiappucci, honorary
member of the IPA, arose during the presentation
of his autobiographical book “I luoghi del
Diablo”, organised last November by the IPA
Committee of Crema, where he is registered as a
Supporting Friend.
Claudio Chiappucci, you have been one of the
greatest climbers in the history of cycling. When
did your passion for cycling begin?
Actually, as a teenager I loved football and
wanted to become a footballer, with a particular
inclination for attacking.
Among your many achievements, the Tour de
France stage finishing in Sestriere on 18 July 1992
remains unforgettable. How did you manage
such an extraordinary feat?
At the time there were no earpieces; information
came from the motorcycles and race radio.
Initially, I stayed with riders trying to animate the
race, until we found ourselves in a breakaway.
When I realised I had a decent advantage, my
escape had already begun. After climbing the
Iseran at 2,770 metres, I immediately attacked
downhill, taking many risks.
www.ipa-international.org
March 2026
The gap seemed to decrease after Mont Cenis,
and during the final ascent to Sestriere I expected
my rivals to appear at any moment, but they
never did. What I saw instead was a sea of
people. The more the road climbed, the more the
crowd surrounded me, forming a wall that
opened only with each pedal stroke.
They threw water on me and patted my shoulders
—painful when your body is hypersensitive after
more than 220 kilometres alone. Reaching the
finish was an immense effort. I realised I had won
only when the barriers finally separated me from
the crowd. It had been seven hours, forty-four
minutes, and fifty-one seconds. I raised my arms
to the sky and cried with joy. That exact moment
is on the cover of my book. Gino Bartali was there
too; his presence made it feel like cycling from
another era.
Your book reflects your aggressive racing style.
Where does the nickname “El Diablo” come
from?
In October 1992 I raced the Clásico RCN in
Colombia. After winning the first stage with
continuous attacks on the climbs, local
commentators said I rode like a devil—el diablo.
The nickname spread quickly.
I still carry it with me, along with the memory of
my first victory as “El Diablo” in Corvara on 6 June
1993 during the Giro d’Italia. It was a freezing,
devastating stage. At the finish I collapsed onto
the handlebars and was wrapped in a blanket,
completely exhausted.
14
IPA Newsletter March 2026 — Page 15
INTERNATIONAL POLICE ASSOCIATION
INTRODUCTION FROMWe Ask...
Claudio Chiappucci, Italian IPA’s cycling champion
INTERNATIONAL PRESIDENT MA
As IPA, we remember that the day after your
Sestriere victory, Italy was struck by the Via
D’Amelio massacre. How did you experience that
moment?
I could hardly believe it. Just twenty-four hours
earlier the country had stopped to follow my ride,
and the next day everything stopped because of
the killing of Judge Paolo Borsellino and the
members of his escort. We were living in a surreal
time.
After the Capaci massacre in May, this tragedy
overwhelmed us with sadness. Years later,
meeting Rita Borsellino deeply moved me.
Through her determination, she kept alive the
memory of her brother and those who gave their
lives in the fight against organised crime.
www.ipa-international.org
March 2026
We like to believe that, even briefly, your epic
ride gave moments of lightness to those who
were fulfilling their duty until the very end.
Thank you, Claudio Chiappucci, for this interview.
We are proud to count you among our
Supporting Friends and hope to meet you again
soon during one of your book presentations—
because, as they say, “Claudio, tú eres como un
diablo.”
Mauro Nardella
Editorial Director – Italy IPA Magazine
15
IPA Newsletter March 2026 — Page 16
INTERNATIONAL POLICE ASSOCIATION
IPA Belgian Officers Participate in
IPA USA Green Bay Wisconsin Seminar
On June 19, 2025, five colleagues from ZP
Weser-Göhl began a very special journey to
participate in a seminar organised by the
International Police Association (IPA) in Green
Bay, United States.
The first stop was Chicago, where the group
shared an Airbnb and spent a few days
discovering the city. Despite summer
temperatures reaching 36°C, we explored the
impressive skyline and iconic skyscrapers,
visited Navy Pier and Millennium Park, enjoyed
rooftop bars with breathtaking views, swam in
Lake Michigan and immersed ourselves in the
cultural diversity of the city.
A major highlight was the ride-along with the
Chicago Police Department. After a warm
welcome, we were divided into teams and
accompanied officers on patrol. It was striking to
see that officers generally work alone (“One
Patrol Man”), a concept difficult to imagine inBUSINESS INNON
our own structures. Shortly after the start of the
shift, we responded to an urgent firearm-related
call, with around ten patrol vehicles arriving
within minutes. We also observed several traffic
stops and visited the Chicago Police College,
where we learned that initial training lasts only
six months.
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing
elit. Nunc enim arcu, mollis ut ullamcorper ut, congue
sit amet neque.
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing
elit. Nunc enim arcu, mollis ut ullamcorper ut,
congue sit amet neque.
www.ipa-international.org
March 2026
The next day, we travelled to Green Bay, where
we were warmly welcomed by Joe Johnson,
president of the IPA USA and organiser of the
seminar and stayed at St. Norbert College. The
seminar officially began on June 26 with
intensive drone training, providing valuable
technical and tactical insights, while fostering
international friendship and professional
exchange.
As a welcome, we have received various gifts
IPA: a gourd, a corner and an insignia. We were
staying at St. Norbert College, and from the first
evening, we met many international
colleagues – coming notably from Germany,
England, Australia, South Africa, Ireland and
Gibraltar. The atmosphere was marked by
openness, mutual interest and professional
exchanges.
The Seminar
June 26 – Official start
After greetings and group photos, the first
activity was a demanding training on drones. It
allowed us to better understand the technical
bases as well as the possible tactical
applications.
16
IPA Newsletter March 2026 — Page 17
INTERNATIONAL POLICE ASSOCIATION
IPA Belgian Officers Participate in
IPA USA Green Bay Wisconsin Seminar
Day 2 – Shooting Training
The day took place on a shooting range. The
morning was dedicated to the TTI, the afternoon
to the test of various short and long weapons,
some of which were equipped with red-dot
sights. A shooting competition closed the day
when we finished just behind our German
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colleagues.
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elit. Nunc enim arcu, mollis ut ullamcorper ut, congue
sit amet neque.
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing
elit. Nunc enim arcu, mollis ut ullamcorper ut,
congue sit amet neque.
www.ipa-international.org
March 2026
Day 3 – Community Policing
The main theme was community policing. We
took part in the “Christmas Lights” charity event,
aimed at supporting police officers and citizens
facing financial difficulties. This initiative
demonstrated strong cooperation between
police and the community. In the afternoon, we
again accompanied American colleagues on
patrol.
Day 4 – Emergency Medical Training
We completed training on the correct
application of tourniquets, followed by a further
TTI module focusing on active shooter (amok)
situations. The training was demanding but
highly informative.
Day 5 – ASP Instructor Training
The entire day was dedicated to ASP Instructor
qualification. After completing theoretical and
practical examinations, we were officially
certified as instructors, allowing us to transfer this
knowledge into our daily work.
Day 6 – Closing Banquet
The seminar concluded with a formal closing
event and exchanges between international
participants.
This trip was extremely enriching, both personally
and professionally. We gained new skills in TTI,
TECC and ASP, discovered police practices from
other countries, and strengthened international
cooperation. Above all, we experienced the
strong sense of belonging to a global policing
community in line with the IPA motto:
Servo per Amikeco – Serving through friendship
Tom ORTMANN
IPA Liège, Belgium
17
IPA Newsletter March 2026 — Page 18
INTERNATIONAL POLICE ASSOCIATION
INTRODUCTION FROMArthur Troop Scholarship
Chris Mace - IPA Canada
INTERNATIONAL PRESIDENT MA
After reviewing available courses across Europe and North America, I encountered challenges related
to scheduling, professional commitments, and language availability. Ultimately, a course offering
aligned perfectly: NextGen Policing – Terrorism Response and Investigation at IBZ Schloss Gimborn. The
course content addressed emerging risks relevant to policing at the national, provincial, and regional
levels.
Course Overview
Terrorism remains a critical challenge for modern law enforcement, and understanding how terrorist
actors plan and operate is essential.
This seminar provided young police officers and
IPA members with a concise yet impactful
introduction to counterterrorism strategies and
investigative skills.
Participants examined the terrorist planning cycle,
from intelligence gathering and surveillance to
operational execution and response. The seminar
blended expert-led instruction with case studies,
practical exercises, and a high-intensity scenario
designed to replicate real-world conditions.
Key learning objectives included understanding
early indicators of terrorist activity, developing
OSINT and surveillance skills, participating in a full-
scale crisis simulation, and exchanging
knowledge with international colleagues. The
NextGen Policing focus directly supported my
professional responsibilities.
www.ipa-international.org
March 2026
As a serving member of the Waterloo Regional
Police Service with 18 years of experience in
policing, I was honoured to be awarded the 2025
Arthur Troop Scholarship. This recognition
provided me with the opportunity to attend a
professional development seminar at IBZ Schloss
Gimborn in Germany.
My initial application and selection was for the
Public Order Course; however, the instructor
became unavailable and the course was
cancelled. With the support of IPA members in
Canada and those involved with the Arthur Troop
Scholarship, I was able to pivot and identify an
alternative training opportunity.
18
IPA Newsletter March 2026 — Page 19
INTERNATIONAL POLICE ASSOCIATION
INTRODUCTION FROMArthur Troop Scholarship
Chris Mace - IPA Canada
INTERNATIONAL PRESIDENT MA
Seminar Highlights
Day 1 – Terrorism Planning, Psychology & OSINT
The first day focused on the terrorist planning cycle, psychological drivers of radicalization, and online
recruitment pathways. Participants explored the structure of the internet, including the surface, deep,
and dark web, and examined how metadata and digital traces support investigations. The day
concluded with a team-based OSINT exercise, Murder @ Gimborn Castle, applying learned concepts
in a live-action scenario.
Day 2 – OSINT Expansion & Scenario Training
Training expanded into dark web intelligence collection, tools, and legal considerations. Practical
