INTERNATIONAL POLICE ASSOCIATION
TEXAS REGION 30
What is the IPA ?
I would like to take
this opportunity to introduce you to the International Police Association.
The IPA is one of the most unique and interesting social organizations in
the world. With almost 300,000 members in nearly 61 member nations, it is
the largest fraternal organization for law enforcement in the world! It is
also the only law enforcement organization to have a seat at the United
Nations General Assembly. This non-profit organization is dedicated “to
unite in service and friendship, all active and retired members of the law
enforcement service throughout the world”. The IPA strives to enhance the
image of the police in its member countries, and to facilitate international
cooperation through friendly contacts between police officers of all
continents. Membership is open to any serving or retired law enforcement
officer meeting the requirements for membership in the United States
Section. Membership is offered regardless of rank, race, sex, color,
religion or creed.
The IPA was formed by the late Sgt. Arthur Throop in Lincolnshire, England
in 1950. This began with his dream to have police officers band together
through friendship around the world. This is evidenced in the organization’s
motto “Servo Per Amikeco” which means “Service Through Friendship”. As law
enforcement officers, we are often an isolated and alienated group who enjoy
sharing common experiences with others of similar backgrounds. The IPA
offers an opportunity for cultural exchange and contacts on a local,
national and international level. It is also a tremendous organization for
members, and their families, who wish to travel.
Members are often extended courtesies, offered assistance and given tours
that would not normally be available to the general public. If you are a
traveler seeking fun, excitement and new friends in either close or far away
places, it’s always comforting having a friendly face there to meet you. The
IPA offers something a travel agency cannot; nobody knows the city or town
like the police officer who lives or works there. There is a worldwide
network of willing member hosts and established ‘IPA houses’. These provide
members with low cost, sometimes free where available, accommodations and
guidance during travels throughout the U.S. and abroad. These experiences
often generate lifelong friendships.
If you are a hobbyist or collector you will find a corresponding member
throughout the world ready to exchange information or collectibles.
Insignias, uniforms, stamps, ham radio operators, pen pals, etc. are but a
few. There is also a very successful youth exchange program within the IPA.
Our program is in partnership with the AYUSA International Student Exchange
Organization. This is a fabulous opportunity to host an IPA member’s high
school age son or daughter from another member country for a school year and
vice versa. Another program for our kids is the annual International Youth
Gathering. Each year two children of IPA members, from the U.S. Section, are
selected from those applying and join 40 participants from other IPA member
countries. They are hosted by one of the member countries for a 2 week fun
and educational experience.
Each year the delegates from all 60 U.S. Section regions convene to conduct
the business of the U.S. Section at the National Delegates Conference. There
is always something going on somewhere in the U.S., or elsewhere in the
world, with the IPA. Membership in the association is granted after
submittal of an application with documentation and the registration fee with
first year’s dues totaling $25.00. Thereafter, annual membership dues are
$20.00. We are the only organization that can claim “we give you the
world for $20”.