Police leaders from around the world will gather at the fifth United Nations Chiefs of Police Summit (UNCOPS 2026) held on 7-8 July at the United Nations Headquarters in New York to discuss how UN policing can adapt to evolving peace and security challenges and continue supporting conflict prevention and sustainable peace.
Held against a backdrop of increasingly complex operating environments, ongoing United Nations reforms and significant budgetary pressures, the summit will bring together Ministers, Chiefs of Police and Gendarmerie, senior United Nations officials and international partners to exchange experiences, strengthen partnerships and help shape the future of United Nations policing.
UNCOPS 2026 will examine how United Nations Police (UNPOL) can continue supporting Member States and host countries while adapting to evolving peace operations, transitions and new security challenges. Discussions will focus on the future role of UNPOL, the responsible use of innovation and new technologies, and stronger international cooperation to address transnational threats, including organized crime, trafficking and environmental crime.
The summit aims to strengthen the links between service in United Nations peace operations and national policing, promote professionalism and performance, and reinforce partnerships with regional and international organizations and national law enforcement institutions. Participants will also explore how the knowledge, expertise and specialized capabilities developed through decades of United Nations policing can be preserved and strengthened to meet future demands.
UNCOPS 2026 will also launch a broad consultation process with Member States, international and regional organizations, academia and other partners to develop a new vision for United Nations policing. The process will help ensure that UN Police remains agile, people-centred and responsive to the changing needs of peace operations while reinforcing its contribution to preventing conflict and sustaining peace.
