Aim: The article aims to analyse the methodologies and practical applications of Training Needs Analysis (TNA) in law enforcement, with particular attention to the model developed by the European Union Agency for Law Enforcement Training (CEPOL). It seeks to determine how CEPOL’s approach compares to other documented practices in terms of structure, foresight integration, and strategic coherence. Methodology: The study is based on a systematic review of 406 academic and institutional publications published between 1966 and 2025. The analysis includes both quantitative and qualitative methods to assess general TNA approaches, security-sector-specific applications, and the role of foresight in anticipating training needs. Special attention is given to CEPOL’s dual-layered model, comprising the EU Strategic Training Needs Assessment (EU-STNA) and the Operational Training Needs Analysis (OTNA). Findings: The review identifies a shift towards competency-based and data-driven TNA practices worldwide, with a growing emphasis on digital skills and artificial intelligence. The CEPOL model is characterised as a mature, multi-stakeholder framework that effectively translates strategic EU security priorities into operational training. Despite its strengths, the analysis also highlights challenges in outreach and in measuring long-term training impact. Value: This study provides an up-to-date and comprehensive overview of international TNA practices, positioning CEPOL’s methodology as a benchmark for structured and forward-looking law enforcement training. It contributes to the literature by mapping emerging trends and offering policy-relevant insights into professional development strategies within EU law enforcement.
Arru et al. (Tue,) studied this question.