INSUBCONTINENT EXCLUSIVE:
In the bustling streets and quiet neighborhoods of Congo-Brazzaville, a pervasive sense of insecurity looms among its citizens.The police
force, ideally the bastion of safety and order, is under scrutiny, with many questioning its integrity and effectiveness.This investigation,
walking in their neighborhoods.This sentiment is particularly acute among urban and less affluent populations, who disproportionately bear
the brunt of this insecurity.Paying for Protection: The High Cost of Security in Congo-Brazzaville
(Photo Internet reproduction)When it comes to seeking help from the police, the hurdles are high: about 60% of those who reached out for
assistance found it difficult to obtain, and a staggering 68% resorted to paying bribes.The perception of the police is notably grim
More than half of the respondents view most officers as corrupt
Trust in the police is alarmingly low, with only 40% expressing moderate to strong confidence in their services.These figures are mirrored
in the reported behaviors
There are frequent unlawful stops of drivers, excessive use of force, and questionable responses to protests.These actions paint a picture
of a police force operating far outside the bounds of professional conduct.Yet, the story is not uniformly bleak
A hopeful 77% believe the police take gender-based violence seriously, suggesting some areas of police activity may still hold public
trust.Restoring Trust in Law EnforcementHowever, the overarching narrative remains one of deep dissatisfaction, with 79% disapproving of the
secure environment where community trust can flourish.In a country where the police are seen more as part of the problem than the solution,
the fabric of society begins to unravel
This affects everything from daily safety to national stability.Recent initiatives, such as a European Union grant aimed at enhancing police
training in human rights and improving facilities, indicate a move towards reform.But the road ahead is long
The police must not only uphold the law but do so in a manner that regains and retains the trust of those they vow to protect.As
Congo-Brazzaville grapples with these challenges, both its citizens and the international community remain watchful
