Forging New Paths in Global Policing: Cultural Transformation Roundtable in Abu Dhabi

At a time when effective policing is as complex as ever, the Global Consortium Group (GCG) is proud to support initiatives that bring together public safety leaders from around the world, to tackle the challenges head-on.

Recently, the GCG, in collaboration with the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) and the UAE Ministry of Interior, helped facilitate a landmark two-day roundtable in Abu Dhabi.

This event gathered 16 top police leaders from around the world for a candid discussion on cultural transformation in policing—a topic that is becoming increasingly critical in shaping community trust and effective law enforcement globally.

Facilitated by Stuart Bartels from the GCG, this roundtable was a deep dive into cultural challenges within policing organizations, focusing on how to create sustainable change in a constantly evolving global landscape. Leaders from diverse cultural backgrounds and police agencies shared their experiences, challenges, and victories in cultural transformation, underscoring the importance of international collaboration and shared learning.

The gathering represented a significant step forward in global policing, as police leaders worked together to analyse and address the obstacles that lie ahead.

Looking beyond simple fixes

One of the central themes of the discussion was Systems Leadership—an approach that looks beyond simple fixes to tackle the complex, interconnected nature of challenges within police organizations.

The Commissioners skilfully assessed the multiple systems that impact change programs, culture, and transformative change. They then interpreted and applied the various leadership styles, activities and qualities that are required to make progress on such difficult issues. They proved that by holding to a diagnostic and analytical approach, significant progress can be made on even the most difficult challenges.

The discussion also touched on both the struggles and successes of cultural change. Some attendees spoke of seemingly insurmountable barriers within their organisations, while others shared breakthrough moments where change was achieved.

The takeaways

Together, participants determined there were multiple steps in cultural transformation.

• breaking traditional paradigms

• to challenge existing assumptions

• to change systems thinking and

• understanding that resistance to change will be encountered when implementing cultural transformation initiatives

Above all, participants agreed that the most important thing is accepting the fact that change is necessary for organisations to thrive.

Stuart noted a particularly inspiring moment when one participant highlighted the value of learning from success stories—no matter how isolated they might seem. It was a reminder of the importance of approaching these conversations without bias and of truly listening to every voice in the room. It’s this openness to diverse perspectives that allows us to uncover unexpected insights and solutions.

Bringing leaders together for global change

As the world becomes more interconnected, the GCG and its partners recognise that collaboration is no longer optional—it’s essential.

This roundtable event is a testament to the power of international conversation in driving cultural change within policing.

By facilitating these discussions, the GCG is supporting today’s police leaders to work toward a future where communities around the world feel safer.

This roundtable was more than a conversation; it was a powerful reminder of the potential for progress when skilled leaders from diverse backgrounds come together with a common goal.

The GCG looks forward to supporting more initiatives like this, helping police organizations worldwide.