The International Police Association is an independent body made up of members of the police service, whether on active duty or retired, and without distinction as to rank, sex, race, colour, language or religion. Its purpose is to create bonds of friendship and to promote international co-operation.
Membership presently exceeds 372,000 from over 65 countries on 5 continents and includes all ranks. Each member country is controlled by National Council, which in turn is answerable to the International Executive Council Countries are divided into Regions for administrative purposes.
It is committed to the principles set out in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights as adopted by the United Nations in 1948 and recognises that any form of torture is absolutely inconsistent with these principles. It's aims include the development of cultural relations amongst it's members, a broadening of their general knowledge and an exchange of professional experience. In addition, it seeks to foster mutual help in the social sphere and to contribute, within the limits of it's possibilities, to the peaceful co-existence of different peoples and to the preservation of world peace.
In New Zealand there are six regions based on a combination of NZ Police boundaries. Each has an elected committee and a nominated representative who serves on the National Council. Local events organised by these committee's are just one of the benefits of belonging to the IPA.
The purpose of our organisation is strictly cultural, social and recreational. At no time does the IPA take part in any matter of departmental policy, discipline or unionism.
In 1986 the need for full time staff and a permanent administrative centre was identified, followed in 1987 by the establishment of a permanent centre in England at the headquarters of the British Section. This headquarters is located in Nottingham opposite the Trent Bridge cricket ground.
There is no permanent headquarters in New Zealand. Officers who serve on the National Executive are elected every three years, with all administrative matters being handled by the Secretary-General.