HERAT - The importance of strong ties between Afghanistan’s police officers and the communities they serve was the focus of a UN-backed event in the country’s western province of Farah. 

The event, organized by the regional office of the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA), drew provincial officials, civil society representatives, media professionals and community leaders, all of whom exchanged ideas about the role of police officers in their communities.

Throughout the meeting, participants discussed practical ways to enhance mutual understanding and cooperation across Farah, a spacious and sparsely populated province whose economy relies almost exclusively on agricultural production.

Several participants outlined their concerns regarding alleged police misbehaviour and poor performance. “Fighting corruption and misbehaviour should be taken seriously,” said Khair Mohammad Norzai, Farah’s Provincial Council Deputy Chief.

Gulab Sori, the Chief of Farah’s Counter-Terrorism Police Department, emphasized that while law enforcement, crime prevention and support to peace are core police responsibilities, it would be impossible for the police to serve the population without their support and cooperation.

“Police officers in the province of Farah are trying to implement positive changes to gain the trust of the populations they serve,” Mr. Sori stressed.

At the end of the discussion, event participants agreed to set up regular meetings between police and community leaders in the interest of strengthening relations and addressing concerns.

UNAMA is mandated to support the Afghan Government and the people of Afghanistan as a political mission that provides 'good offices' among other key services. 'Good offices' are diplomatic steps UN takes publicly and in private, drawing on its independence, impartiality and integrity, to prevent international disputes from arising, escalating or spreading.

UNAMA also promotes coherent development support by the international community; assists the process of peace and reconciliation; monitors and promotes human rights and the protection of civilians in armed conflict; promotes good governance; and encourages regional cooperation.