Citizens ‘participation in the fight against criminal offences: political and legal aspects

The aim of the research is to reveal political and legal aspects at international level in the field of citizens’ participation in the fight against crime. Attention is paid to the most common forms of public participation: patrolling; provide information on criminals or criminal acts committed; participation in anti-corruption measures; assistance in the resocialization of offenders; aiding victims of crime; strengthening the security of one’s own property; participation in information on anti-criminal measures. Methodologically it is a documentary research. In conclusion, the benefits of public participation in crime prevention, based on international crime prevention, can be divided into two groups: basic and additional. The main advantages are reduction of crime and delinquency; improve security in relevant areas of cities; reducing citizens’ fear of crime; strengthening the service function of the police forces in relation to the inhabitants of territorial communities; improve police partnerships with the public.