European Branch

Mrs Barbara Spooner M.B.E
Managing Director UK

Led and served in Specialist Operations (Human Intelligence) within the national and international law enforcement environment, territorial policing and Serious and Organized Crime for more than 32 years. During this time Barbara was also involved as a national executive lead for woman in policing, developing national policy and developing the strategic equality plan for serious organized crime squad. With extensive senior leadership experience in national and international policing including covert operations, operational leadership, programme management, and capability building.
In 2014 her work was recognized, and she was invested as a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for her outstanding contribution to both leadership for women in law enforcement and services to covert intelligence operations. Barbara’s specialist operations work saw her delivering international projects, chairing a covert global task force of 22 countries for five years (including 5 eyes) and eventually commanding the National Crime Agency Communications Data Unit which included holding a leading role in the UK for implementation of new legislation.

The functions, responsibilities, or operations of each regional branch within the International Police Science Association (IPSA) include the following:

Enhancing Regional Collaboration:
The regional branches actively encourage collaboration among members within their respective regions. This involves facilitating the sharing of best practices, research findings, and resources to strengthen the network and promote the exchange of knowledge and expertise.
Organizing Regional Conferences and Events:
Regional branches are responsible for organizing conferences, seminars, workshops, or other events that focus on specific regional issues, challenges, and advancements in the field of police science. These events provide valuable opportunities for networking, knowledge sharing, and regional engagement within IPSA.
Promoting Research and Publications:
The regional branches encourage and support research activities specific to their regions. This may include conducting regional case studies, analyzing regional crime trends, and producing publications that address the unique challenges and needs of each region. These research findings can contribute to the broader knowledge base within IPSA.
Facilitating Training and Capacity Building:
Regional branches play a crucial role in facilitating the development and delivery of training programs and capacity-building initiatives within their regions. This involves identifying specific skill gaps, emerging trends, and regional priorities, and organizing relevant training opportunities for members to enhance their professional capabilities.
Establishing Regional Task Forces or Working Groups:
The regional branches may establish task forces or working groups to address specific issues or areas of interest within their regions. These groups can focus on topics such as community policing, cybercrime, counterterrorism, or any other regional concerns identified by the members. The task forces can undertake research, develop strategies, and propose solutions to address regional challenges.
Ensuring Regional Representation:
Each regional branch has adequate representation within the IPSA governance structure. This allows for regional perspectives, concerns, and interests to be effectively communicated and considered in the decision-making processes of the Association. Regional representatives should actively participate in IPSA’s meetings, committees, and other relevant activities.