Guest editorial: Why leaders and leadership matter

Policing has long been contentious in many societies (Reith, 1948; Walker, 1977). The police are visible representations of government and have a presence in communities and societies unmatched by most other social institutions. In times of change, crisis and uncertainty, community members might feel uncertain and unsafe, including the security of their community. In such situations, the police often find themselves caught in the middle of populist rhetoric and politicized decisions.

Police have an essential role in responding to crime and contributing to the social fabric of communities. Community police officers around the world have long known...