This episode of Policing TV’s IPA Insight focuses on empowering women in uniform, particularly in the police force.

Patrik Thunholm, a researcher and former military officer, provides insights into the history of female policing in Sweden and discusses the challenges and progress made in encouraging women to join the police, military, and firefighting professions.

He also shares his upcoming research on the experiences of civilian employees within the police force and the importance of organizational culture in creating an inclusive environment.

Takeaways

• The first female police personnel in Sweden were nurses who took care of children, women, and prostitutes in 1908.
• Uniformed female police officers were introduced in 1958, which was met with controversy.
• The Swedish police union and other instances initially opposed the idea of female police officers, arguing that it was important for the public to be able to identify the gender of officers from a distance.
• Female police officers in Sweden were initially required to wear skirts and had different uniforms and equipment compared to male officers. These gender-based distinctions have gradually changed over time.
• The representation of women in the police force has increased, with around 35-38% of police officers in Sweden being female. However, there is still work to be done in terms of recruiting and integrating women in professions like the military and firefighting.
• Physical tests and requirements have historically posed challenges for women in professions like firefighting, where certain tasks may favour individuals with greater physical strength. Efforts are being made to address these barriers and create more inclusive recruitment processes.
• The mix of genders and diverse skills within organizations like the police, military, and firefighting is crucial for their effectiveness. It is important to support and encourage individuals based on their abilities rather than their gender.
• Research is being conducted on the experiences of civilian employees within the police force, focusing on social structures, power dynamics, and organizational culture. The aim is to identify areas for improvement and enhance integration within the police organization.
• Organizational culture plays a significant role in shaping the experiences of both police officers and civilian employees. The culture of silence and established-outsider dynamics are areas of interest for further research and improvement.
• Policing TV and the International Police Association (IPA) provide platforms for discussing and promoting issues related to women in uniform and policing. They offer resources and opportunities for individuals interested in joining or learning more about these professions.

Sound Bites

• “The first female police officers in Sweden arrived in 1908. It was quite controversial in Swedish society.”
• “There’s still more to be done when it comes to physical tests and requirements for women in professions like firefighting.”
• “There are a hundred jobs within the police. There’s something that might suit everyone.”

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