Pristupačnost
The Department of Sociology was established in 1992 and is one of the core disciplines of the Faculty of Croatian Studies. The concept of sociology studies focuses on the application of sociological theories and social science methodology for understanding social processes and phenomena in the specific context of Croatian society and comparatively in a European and global perspective. The study of sociology aims to train highly qualified sociological research personnel with professional research and analytical skills necessary for productive work in the public and private sectors. The sociology program at the bachelor's and master's levels is organized according to current international scientific standards.
The Community Policing Course began on Monday, 16 February, at the Police Academy “First Croatian Police Officer” in Zagreb. The lectures were delivered by Prof. Irena Cajner Mraović, PhD, Head of the Department of Sociology at the Faculty of Croatian Studies.
As part of the program, she delivered a series of lectures on community policing, criminology, and prevention, with a focus on contemporary approaches to understanding crime, preventive action, and the development of partnership relations between the police and citizens.
The course opening was attended by Vladimir Faber, Advisor to the Minister of the Interior; Josip Ćelić, Head of the Police Academy “First Croatian Police Officer”; and Ilija Jakić, Head of the Lifelong Learning Service. They wished participants success in their work and emphasized the importance of their role in building safety and trust within the community.
The aim of the program is to equip police officers with the skills needed for high-quality and effective community policing through strengthening communication and organizational competencies, developing partnerships with citizens, and enhancing preventive police activities. Particular emphasis is placed on communication skills, professional and lawful conduct, and building trust between the police and the public.
The curriculum covers thematic areas such as community policing, criminology, prevention, social psychology, and communication studies, as well as problem-solving and community engagement, police powers, ethics, and human rights. In addition to lectures, the program includes practical exercises focused on effective communication, conflict resolution, identifying local security challenges, and planning and implementing preventive activities.
Prof. Cajner Mraović is, together with Vladimir Faber, co-author of the 2003 “Community Policing” Strategy, adopted during the reform of the Croatian police and its transition from a traditional model to a community-oriented approach. She is also a former employee of the Ministry of the Interior of the Republic of Croatia, and her scientific and practical experience has undoubtedly contributed to the quality of the training.
