European Commission identifies major training gaps in EU law enforcement

A new study commissioned by the European Commission's Directorate-General for Migration and Home Affairs has revealed a critical deficit in the training and operational readiness of law enforcement agencies across the European Union. Released in late October 2026, this report marks the first comprehensive assessment of the sector since 2013. It highlights that more than 170,000 law enforcement officers require specialized training in priority areas. Projections indicate a sharp 55% increase in educational needs for the period between 2026 and 2029, as the total European police force exceeds 1.5 million personnel.

Only 20% of national authorities surveyed believe current EU-level training programs are adequate, signaling widespread dissatisfaction. The study cataloged 869 existing educational programs, including 507 national initiatives and 104 regional or bilateral efforts. The Commission aims to use these findings to foster a unified European law enforcement culture and improve cross-border operational cooperation. By standardizing training, the EU seeks to better implement common operational tools and strengthen professional networks among member states to address the identified readiness gaps.