Foundations and Future: Policing 2026 and Beyond

More than 160 delegates attended a two-day conference organised by the Northern Ireland Policing Board and the Police Service of Northern Ireland, in partnership with Queen’s and Ulster universities. The event marked 25 years of policing reform in Northern Ireland and explored future challenges, including the impact of technology and AI.

Over 160 delegates attended a two-day conference this week, organised by the Northern Ireland Policing Board and the Police Service of Northern Ireland.

The conference, held in partnership with Queen’s and Ulster universities who each hosted the respective days, was part of a series of events to mark the 25-year anniversary of the new policing arrangements in Northern Ireland.

Foundations and Future: Policing 2026 and Beyond looked back over the years since the Independent Commission on Policing for Northern Ireland’s published its 1999 report, led by the now Rt Hon Lord Chris Patten, as well as the future challenges, and what is needed to address these.

Queen’s President and Vice Chancellor, Professor Sir Ian Greer, said:

“We were delighted to partner with colleagues at Ulster University, the PSNI and the Policing Board for Northern Ireland to deliver the Foundations and Future conference marking 25 years since police reform in Northern Ireland.

“Conferences such as this create valuable opportunities for academics, practitioners, policymakers and communities to learn from one another. Whether this is understanding the social factors that can aid crime prevention and improved rehabilitation outcomes or addressing emerging challenges such as technological change, universities can help shape evidence-based approaches that support safer communities.”

A recurring theme throughout the conference, were the challenges and opportunities presented by rapidly changing technology. Consideration was given to how AI could expedite casework, whilst academic experts outlined the importance of robust research and secure technological infrastructure giving confidence in their application to policing and justice systems.

Police Service of Northern Ireland Chief Constable Jon Boutcher said:

“Since 2001, our officers and staff in the PSNI have worked tirelessly to keep people safe, protect the vulnerable and build confidence in policing across Northern Ireland. Their commitment, often in very difficult and demanding circumstances, has shaped the Service we are today.

“The 25-year journey has not been without challenge. Policing Northern Ireland has continued to evolve alongside the society we serve, responding to changing expectations, new forms of crime and the ever-growing complexity of the threats facing our communities. Throughout that journey which is building on the foundations laid by our colleagues in the RUC George Cross, the dedication and professionalism of our police officers and police staff has remained at the heart of everything we do.

“This significant anniversary is therefore both a moment to look back with great pride and an opportunity to look forward with purpose. The challenges ahead will require us to remain adaptable, innovative and open to new ways of working, while never losing sight of the fundamental principles of policing by consent, fairness and respect.”

Speaking in advance of the two-day event, Chair of the Northern Ireland Policing Board, Brendan Mullan said:

“Patten’s enduring principles provide the stability and legitimacy on which the Board and the PSNI were established, while openness to new ideas, new developments and approaches will help shape our thinking going forward.

“We know that new demands, changing crime and demographics along with ever evolving technology will inevitably bring change for us all. This conference provides a valuable forum for thoughtful discussion, shared learning and constructive challenge so that we can explore how policing and policing oversight can continue to strengthen public confidence and support better outcomes for the communities.”

Ulster University Vice-Chancellor, Professor Paul Bartholomew, said:

“Ulster University greatly values its longstanding partnership with policing in Northern Ireland, which spans more than 50 years and is one of the longest-running police-university collaborations across the UK and Ireland. Through education, research and professional development, we work together to support effective policing, inform policy and practice, and help prepare future generations of officers and public service leaders.

“This conference provides an opportunity to reflect on the progress made over the past quarter century and to consider the challenges and opportunities ahead.”