The Police Union in Sweden, represented by its chair Katharina von Sydow, highlights the urgent need for retention strategies for experienced police officers amid a workforce where almost half have less than ten years of service. In a recent opinion piece published in DN, von Sydow emphasizes the critical balance between new and seasoned officers, arguing that this relationship is vital for safety, judicial integrity, efficiency, and overall effectiveness in policing. She notes that prior reviews have shown that when this balance is disrupted, valuable tacit knowledge, which is passed down through generations in the profession, suffers significantly.

To counteract this trend, the Police Union proposes several initiatives aimed at encouraging experienced officers to remain in their roles. These include greater opportunities for career transitions between internal and external functions and offering appealing part-time and flexible working arrangements for those contemplating early retirement. The suggestions reflect a broader concern about the potential degradation of police effectiveness if these experienced officers continue to leave the profession, thus affecting the overall quality of law enforcement in Sweden.

In essence, the discourse surrounding police retention is not merely about workforce numbers; it encompasses the quality of policing and the institutional knowledge that impacts public safety. As the police force changes, the implications of retaining seasoned professionals take on greater significance, particularly in light of inheriting skills critical for maintaining order and justice in society.