Presented by: Ina Stašević, Croatia/European Union
The tourist police constitute a specialized police unit whose primary task is to provide safety, assistance, and information to tourists. Their role is becoming increasingly important with the growth of international tourism, as many visitors are often unfamiliar with local laws, customs, and the language. Beyond protecting tourists from crime and fraud, the tourist police contribute to fostering a sense of security and a positive image of the tourist destination.
Countries with well-developed tourist police systems include Spain, Italy, Greece, Turkey, Croatia, Thailand, China, the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, and Mexico. In many of these countries, tourist police officers patrol popular tourist areas, airports, transport terminals, beaches, and cultural landmarks.
In modern tourism, safety is a key factor when choosing a destination. Consequently, an increasing number of countries are investing in the development of tourist police forces as specialized services that integrate police work, service provision, and international cooperation. A well-organized tourist police force contributes to tourist safety, the quality of the tourism offering, and the sustainable development of tourism.
During the summer tourist season, Croatia has developed a distinctive model of international police cooperation through the "Safe Tourist Destination" project, implemented by the Ministry of the Interior of the Republic of Croatia. The project has proven highly successful and expands year by year to include police officers from an increasing number of countries. In doing so, Croatia reaffirms its commitment to ensuring a high level of tourist safety and fostering quality international cooperation during the tourist season.
In select tourist locations, police officers from other countries, including Germany, Italy, the Czech Republic, Poland, Slovenia, China, and Korea, work alongside Croatian police officers during the season to enhance the safety of foreign tourists and strengthen international police cooperation. Foreign police officers do not exercise independent police powers within Croatia; instead, they work alongside Croatian officers, wear their national service uniforms, and serve in an advisory and communicative capacity. They assist tourists in communicating with the Croatian police and provide support in instances such as traffic accidents, thefts, and other security-related incidents.
China presents an interesting example, although its model differs from European ones. In recent years, China has developed a security system tailored to the large number of domestic and international tourists. In the most visited tourist areas - such as historical sites, national parks, international airports, and major cities - police implement enhanced security measures and provide assistance to visitors.
Many tourist hubs feature dedicated police information points where tourists can obtain information, report crimes, seek help regarding lost documents, or get instructions on how to contact consular offices. Police officers in high-traffic areas often possess basic foreign language skills or use digital tools to communicate with international visitors.
A distinctive feature of the Chinese model is the extensive use of modern technology. Video surveillance, public security management systems, mobile applications, and digital platforms enable the rapid detection of security threats and an effective police response. During major international events and peak tourist seasons, the number of police patrols is further increased to ensure visitor safety.
The Chinese model demonstrates how a combination of advanced technology, preventive measures, and effective organization can enhance tourist safety. Although China lacks an international police officer exchange program, such as Croatia’s "Safe Tourist Destination" initiative, its system serves as an example of efficient security organization in a country with a vast number of domestic and foreign visitors.
Croatia’s "Safe Tourist Destination" project is considered a prime example of European best practice, as it brings together domestic and foreign police officers to provide superior protection for the millions of tourists visiting the country each year.
This summer, police officers from China are once again assisting their Croatian counterparts. Chinese tourists are delighted to see officers from their home country. "They view us as friends or family members," said a police officer from the PRC.