Synopsis Human rights are universal legal guarantees protecting individuals and groups against actions by governments interfere with fundamental freedoms and human dignity. The protection of human right is fundamental to genuine and lasting law and order. As law enforcers, police are the first line of defence for human rights. They are the guardians of the law, including human rights law. In order to protect human rights, police must first know and understand them. Furthermore, police officers must be familiar with the various international guidelines and bodies of principles, and be able to use them as tools in their everyday work. They must understand that international human rights standards concerning their work were developed to provide invaluable guidance for the performance of their crucial functions in a democratic society. The present publication provides information on international human rights standards relevant to the work of police. It aims to assist law enforcement agencies and individual law enforcement officials in providing effective policing through compliance with international human rights standards. The principal beneficiaries are police trainers and training institutions, national police officials, civilian police engaged in peace-keeping operations and all concerned.