Preventive Activities of Law Enforcement Agencies in Working with Vulnerable Population Groups: Theoretical and Legal Aspects
Abstract
Abstract. The article provides a comprehensive theoretical and legal analysis of the preventive activities of law enforcement agencies in working with vulnerable population groups. The range of socially vulnerable categories (women, children, elderly persons, persons with disabilities, representatives of minorities, etc.) is identified, and the necessity of special attention by the police to their protection is substantiated. The regulatory and legal framework and the current state of preventive activities of the National Police of Ukraine in relation to such groups are analyzed, in particular in the areas of prevention of domestic violence, juvenile prevention, and the protection of human rights. It is emphasized that preventing offences against vulnerable persons is one of the priority tasks of the National Police in accordance with current legislation, while the effectiveness of such activities largely depends on the level of public trust and interagency cooperation. The main challenges are highlighted, including stigmatization and distrust, which hinder victims from seeking assistance, as well as the psychological and social consequences of wartime conditions that increase the risks of offending and victimization among vulnerable groups. Foreign experience is summarized, in particular community policing practices and gender-sensitive policing services that contribute to the protection and support of vulnerable populations. Conclusions and recommendations are formulated to improve the preventive activities of law enforcement agencies, including the expansion of specialized units and mobile response groups, enhancement of professional training of police officers in working with vulnerable categories, strengthening cooperation with social services and civil society, and ensuring strict compliance with human rights standards in the implementation of preventive measures.
Keywords: vulnerable population groups; preventive activities; crime prevention; National Police; domestic violence; juvenile prevention; human rights.
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