All proposals should be submitted by September 15th, 2025.
Violence in the public space is a complex phenomenon that can take different forms, such as interpersonal confrontations, crimes, political conflicts or state repression. It reflects specific dynamics and is often associated with inequalities, power struggles and forms of social control. The presence of security forces in public spaces remains a subject of debate due to their role as mediators between the population and the State.
Police institutions are crucial in maintaining public order and ensuring the safety of citizens. As dynamic entities, they evolve in line with the current sociopolitical transformations, with their actions, methods and legitimacy being constantly shaped by historical contexts, public and societal perceptions, and the demands of the State.
In Portugal, during the authoritarian regime, the police forces were the most visible face of state repression. During the democratic transition, they sought to redefine their role within a new political order, leaving behind their repressive legacies. In a democratic context, the use of force has been a recurring point of debate, raising questions about the proportional use of force, accountability and the balance between security and civil liberties.
Studying violence in public spaces also involves understanding the relationship between the police, society, citizens and political authorities, an interaction often marked by tensions and contradictions and even ambiguities.
Following the example of previous editions, the VII International Congress on Police History will adopt a collaborative, interdisciplinary and international approach, seeking to reflect and debate historical and contemporary perspectives on policing, violence and public space.
All proposals should be submitted by September 15th, 2025, through the following form.