The European Union’s Approach to Law Enforcement Training Needs Analysis: A Review of the CEPOL Model in the Context of Global Practices

Arru, Matteo and Alexa, Noémi (2025) The European Union’s Approach to Law Enforcement Training Needs Analysis: A Review of the CEPOL Model in the Context of Global Practices. BELÜGYI SZEMLE / ACADEMIC JOURNAL OF INTERNAL AFFAIRS: A BELÜGYMINISZTÉRIUM SZAKMAI TUDOMÁNYOS FOLYÓIRATA (2010-), 73 (9). pp. 1933-1949. ISSN 2062-9494

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Abstract

Aim: The article aims to analyse the methodologies and practical applications of Training Needs Analysis (TNA) in law enforcement, with particular attention to the model developed by the European Union Agency for Law Enforcement Training (CEPOL). It seeks to determine how CEPOL’s approach compares to other documented practices in terms of structure, foresight integration, and strategic coherence.Methodology: The study is based on a systematic review of 406 academic and institutional publications published between 1966 and 2025. The analysis includes both quantitative and qualitative methods to assess general TNA approaches, security-sector-specific applications, and the role of foresight in anticipating training needs. Special attention is given to CEPOL’s dual-layered model, comprising the EU Strategic Training Needs Assessment (EU-STNA) and the Operational Training Needs Analysis (OTNA).Findings: The review identifies a shift towards competency-based and data-driven TNA practices worldwide, with a growing emphasis on digital skills and artificial intelligence. The CEPOL model is characterised as a mature, multi-stakeholder framework that effectively translates strategic EU security priorities into operational training. Despite its strengths, the analysis also highlights challenges in outreach and in measuring long-term training impact.Value: This study provides an up-to-date and comprehensive overview of international TNA practices, positioning CEPOL’s methodology as a benchmark for structured and forward-looking law enforcement training. It contributes to the literature by mapping emerging trends and offering policy-relevant insights into professional development strategies within EU law enforcement.

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