Samenvatting

The Dutch police participated in eleven peace missions since 2000. This article describes the experiences of Dutch police officers who carried out police reform during recent missions in Bosnia, Sudan, Kosovo and Afghanistan. In their role as instructor and/or adviser, these police officers taught local constables (basic) policing and management skills. During their mission, they were confronting many obstacles that stem from cultural differences, ethnic tensions, opportunism, unwillingness, corruption and language barriers. Given these limitations, expectations regarding police reform must be tempered. Creating or transforming local police into effective law-enforcement institutions that operate under the rule of law and with respect for human rights, is not a quick fix. However, by means of training and advice, local police officers realize that they should protect and serve.