Center for U.S.-Mexican Studies

This paper explores several potential avenues for police reform, focusing on the analysis of comparative experience from abroad. The paper is divided into three sections. First, it locates the question of police discretion as the central dilemma for reformers. Second, it posits accountability, in the broad sense of management, information and tracking (in addition to disciplinary) systems as the fundamental priority for change. Lastly, it offers six specific recommendations. These address both the process of creating agreement for change, as well as particular mechanism that police forces should integrate into their institutional architecture and normal practice.