The role of communication in relations between the National Police and civil society

The article deals with the role of communication in the relations between the National Police and civil society, based on current legislation. The object of the research is communication between the police and civil society institutions. The subject of the study is communication technologies used by police authorities in their interaction with civil society institutions. The analysis of the research problem was carried out applying universal methods (analysis, synthesis, induction, and deduction), and sociological methods (structural-functional methods, integration, etc.) used in related sciences: sociology of public opinion, social psychology, and political sociology. It is noted that the reformation of the National Police, following the Comprehensive Strategic Plan for Reforming Law Enforcement Agencies as part of the Security and Defense Sector of Ukraine for 2023-2027, makes it relevant and necessary to search for innovative methods and technologies to support the full functioning of institutions of civil society and the rule of law. This requires direct dialogue between the National Police, its leadership, and society. One of the main tasks that public communication services are called upon to solve is a fundamental change in the relationship between the police and citizens, social groups, and civil society institutions, based on creating conditions for the free and effective development of interaction between agencies. Strengthening civilian control over the activities of police agencies during a period of growing democratic reforms on the path to association with the European Union and increased political awareness among the population caused by russia’s armed aggression is a necessary prerequisite, condition, and consequence of improving the effectiveness of communications with civil society, which is the main direction for forming and maintaining their positive image. Improving the image of the National Police is one of the priorities of modern social development. It is necessary to develop social technologies aimed at improving the image of the National Police, which in turn will contribute to the efficiency of their activities.