Greece Moves To Diversity In Police Force

A major factor in developing a society in which the rights of all members are protected is ensuring the police force represents those from diverse ethnic and racial backgrounds. For most people, police represent the authority of government and if they fail to encounter those of their own background, the tendency is to believe they are facing discrimination. In 2006. the Greek Parliament lifted nationality restrictions and allowed anyone whether born in Greece or not to become a member of the police force. The Interior Ministry has decided to embark in a recruitment campaign to bring in those of diverse backgrounds.

Ironically, the Greek Police union has been urging diversity because such action they believe will assist in dealing with crime. Hristos Fotopoulos, head of the police union, says, “we believe immigrants should be employed as police officers, just like Greeks.” Hopefully, at some point in time, he will refer to immigrants as Greeks.