More than 160 delegates took part in the two-day Foundations and Future: Policing 2026 and Beyond conference, split between Ulster University's Belfast campus and Queen's University Belfast, to mark 25 years since the introduction of Northern Ireland's new policing arrangements.

Organised by the Northern Ireland Policing Board and the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) in partnership with Ulster University and Queen's, the event brought together academics, policing and criminal justice professionals, policymakers and community organisations to review progress and consider the challenges and opportunities that will shape policing in the decades ahead.

Welcoming attendees in Belfast, Ulster University Vice-Chancellor Professor Paul Bartholomew said: "As we join with the Northern Ireland Policing Board and the Police Service of Northern Ireland to mark 25 years of the policing arrangements in Northern Ireland, we are delighted to welcome delegates to our Belfast campus for this important event.

"Ulster University greatly values its longstanding partnership with policing in Northern Ireland, which spans more than 50 years and is one of the longest-running police-university collaborations across the UK and Ireland. Through education, research and professional development, we work together to support effective policing, inform policy and practice, and help prepare future generations of officers and public service leaders. "This conference provides an opportunity to reflect on the progress made over the past quarter century and to consider the challenges and opportunities ahead. We look forward to the discussions that will support the continued development of policing in the years to come."

Queen's President and Vice Chancellor, Professor Sir Ian Greer, said: "We are delighted to partner with colleagues at Ulster University, the PSNI and the Policing Board for Northern Ireland to deliver the Foundations and Future conference marking 25 years since police reform in Northern Ireland.

"Conferences such as this create valuable opportunities for academics, practitioners, policymakers and communities to learn from one another. Whether this is understanding the social factors that can aid crime prevention and improved rehabilitation outcomes or addressing emerging challenges such as technological change, universities can help shape evidence-based approaches that support safer communities."

Northern Ireland Policing Board Chair Brendan Mullan said the conference provided a chance to reflect on the enduring principles that have guided policing over the last 25 years while identifying changes needed to meet future challenges. PSNI Chief Constable Jon Boutcher praised the dedication of officers and staff since 2001 and underlined the importance of adaptability, innovation and policing by consent in response to evolving community needs and emerging forms of crime.

The conference forms part of a wider programme of events marking the 25th anniversary of Northern Ireland's post-reform policing, creating a platform for reflection, discussion and collaboration to strengthen policing and public confidence.