co-existence of national minorities. The fact that you, whoever you are, can take grievances to court and rely on being rendered a judgment that is in accordance with a law that has been passed by a parliament elected in accordance with a constitution that is compliant with international standards, is crucial. A reliable judicial process is one thing. When it comes to alleviation of tensions and conflict prevention, multi-ethnic policing has an indispensable role to play. Police and minority communities have much to gain from working closely together. Cooperation and partnership between police and minorities brings increased operational information, more intelligence, more expertise in language and cultures. Minorities will feel more secure and comfortable in their environments when they know and trust their police officers. Police operate at ‘street’ level and can thus take the opportunity of being the first responders to safeguard law and order in the society. A police service that is seen to incorporate sections of society that are otherwise excluded or marginalized will be more likely to secure the co-operation of members of all communities. A police force representative of all sections of society sends positive signals – securing legitimacy, buy-in and sustainability.