National Council of Police Workplace Associations: “Police reform must not be built on the one-sided sacrifice of frontline officers”

[Financial News] The National Council of Police Workplace Associations (NCOPWA) urged the state to improve the treatment and working conditions of frontline police officers to mark the 81st Police Day. It also expressed regret that the president’s commemorative address that day did not include enough concrete pledges on the issue.
On the 21st, the council issued a statement titled “On Police Day, the state’s responsibility must be considered alongside officers’ responsibility.” The council said, “We take seriously the need to restore public trust and reform the police, as emphasized by the president.” It added, “We agree that the police, as an organization that protects the lives and safety of the people, must constantly change and develop.”
However, the council noted that Police Day is a day to honor frontline officers’ hard work and express gratitude for their sacrifice and dedication. It said, “It is disappointing that today’s presidential address did not include sufficient concrete pledges to improve treatment and working conditions in ways that would ease the difficulties faced by frontline officers.”
Concern was also raised over the prolonged vacancy in the position of chief of the National Police Agency. The council pointed out, “With the position remaining vacant, swiftly establishing a stable command structure is also an urgent task for frontline morale and public safety.”
The council also stated its position on the direction of police reform. It said, “As police officers are being asked to take on greater responsibilities and roles, improving their treatment and working conditions so they can fulfill those responsibilities is also an important duty of the state.” It stressed, “Police reform must not be carried out on the backs of the one-sided sacrifices of frontline officers.”
The council said it would join efforts to help the police become a force trusted by the public. It added, “We hope the president will pay close attention to the dedication and difficulties of frontline officers and respond with practical improvements to their treatment and working conditions.”

[email protected] Kim Yeji Reporter