Perception of Security Phenomena in Local Communities in Slovenia

Abstract

The concept of human security assumes that the provision of security is human-centred, that is, on people. Today's complex security environment makes it hard for the individual to protect himself/herself without external assistance. This means it is important that security phenomena as perceived by residents should be properly understood by both policymakers and the agencies and services responsible for providing security and safety. Taking public opinion into account adds to the legitimacy of security policy. 'the paper presents public opinion on security-related issues in the last 25 years, focusing on research in 2011 and 2017 and examining the views held by residents and police officers about security phenomena in local communities. Results of recent research show that respondents perceive phenomena - like the provision of alcoholic beverages to drunk people, unemployment, poverty, alcoholism, theft, speeding, and burglary as key (security) problems. Compared with male residents, females believe phenomena like drinking alcohol in public, the accumulation of litter in public places, pollution of the natural environment, speeding, and providing alcohol to juveniles are more problematic in the local community. In contrast to male police officers, their female colleagues are more likely to perceive the drinking of alcohol in public, accumulation of litter in public places, theft, burglary, and pollution of the natural environment as more threatening. Residents and police officers from suburban and rural areas view security phenomena quite similarly, unlike respondents from urban areas who attach greater importance to most phenomena.