The Greek Ministry of Citizen Protection has announced a significant overhaul of the Greek Police Force, aimed at enhancing its efficiency and responsiveness to modern security challenges. The new legislative bill introduces fundamental restructuring and modernization measures that will shape the future of policing in Greece.
Key pillars of the reform include:
Modernization of the Hellenic Police Headquarters:
- The headquarters will be transformed into a supreme administrative body, enabling vertical control and coordination of all police services at the national level.
- Departments will be upgraded to General Directorates, following the French organizational model, to enhance rational management and strategic decision-making.
- Two Deputy Chiefs of the Hellenic Police will be appointed – one for operations and one for staff – to improve coordination and performance in critical operational and staff duties.
Upgrading the Police Academy:
- The Police Academy will be upgraded with new structures and educational methods, focusing on the quality of education and continuous training of personnel.
- New specialized schools will be established for the specialized training of Special Guards, Border Guards, and personnel guarding vulnerable targets.
Reorganization of Staff Services:
- A Directorate of Staff Coordination will be created for strategic planning using new technologies (Foresight) and operational planning based on impact.
- A Department of Statistical Data Analysis will be established for evidence-based policing.
- The Security and Order Departments will be merged into a single General Directorate for unified coordination.
- A Directorate of Social Policing will be created to address interpersonal violence issues with a strong social dimension and to protect vulnerable groups and victims.
- The Information Technology Directorate will be transformed into a Digital Governance Directorate, while a new Directorate of Communications and Networks will be created.
Strengthening International Cooperation and Outward Orientation:
- The restructuring of the Directorate for International Police Cooperation, in line with EUROPOL standards, will strengthen the Hellenic Police’s international presence and police diplomacy.
- A new strategy for communication and public image of the Police will be promoted.
Leveraging Digital Capabilities and Technology:
- The Police’s technological capabilities will be strengthened with the establishment of a Digital Governance Directorate and a new Directorate of Communications and Networks to improve communication and network management.
- Equipment with advanced technological tools for data analysis and improved operational effectiveness.
Human Resources Management:
- Implementation of new procedures for accountability, evaluation, and utilization of human resources, promoting a policy based on performance and meritocracy.
- The Ministry emphasizes that the bill aims to create a “smart” and effective Hellenic Police that can predict and manage incidents and crises successfully. With the strategic redesign of the headquarters and the upgrading of the Police Academy, the Hellenic Police is positioned to meet the challenges of the 21st century.