The Japanese kōban community policing system

Abstract

Aim: The author aims to provide information on the Japanese kōban model for those interested in community policing. At the same time, he highlights the social and political conditions in Japan that have been necessary for the success of the kōban policing model.
Methodology: The author conducted an empirical data collection based on interviews and participant observation in Japan in 2022. The data collection was supported by a professor, formerly a police officer, who was active in police education
and research during the fieldwork period. This support was crucial in enabling the author to contact police leaders, community police officers, criminologists and other professionals. In addition, relevant literature and legal background on the subject were analysed.
Conclusions: In addition to the commitment of the government, collectivism and norm-following, which are characteristic of Japanese society, contributed to the success of community policing. In addition, it was necessary to build a crime prevention network based on the involvement and activation of the public, and on cooperation between the police and local voluntary organisations.
Value: The results make it clear that the introduction or adoption of elements of a community policing model must take into account the specificities of the society concerned. The article also draws attention to the role and potential of comparative criminology.