Engaging Protestors: A Smarter Way for Policing Demonstrations

This article examines the application of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) within the police service in England and Wales in the light of the recent global demonstrations witnessed through events such as the G20. Following a recent published report from the HMIC, the police need to remain innovative in their approach to dealing with public protests. The article clearly illustrates the associated advantages of utilising CSR whilst arguing that such use would increase public confidence and provide greater resonance in attempts by the police to engage with their communities. The historical context and traditional responses are evaluated and the article concludes with the premise that whilst not being a panacea for resolving each of the difficulties in providing a specialist police service, CSR offers a real and robust option that needs to be carefully considered.