During 1993 faculty from the Department of Justice Administration and the Southern Police Institute at the University of Louisville established contact with representatives from the Hungarian and Romanian National Police Forces. Hungarian National Police Force representatives were the first to initiate contact with the university, and faculty interested in promoting police training based on democratic principles made contact with the Romanian National Police Force. During the past 2 years these initial contacts have resulted in an ongoing relationship with representatives from both organizations and the achievement of a number of activities in conjunction with these two organizations. This paper first outlines these accomplishments and then identifies the processes and orientations that promote entry and acceptance. These include perception of a "crisis" or needs and a consequent recognition that direction can be provided through an outside agent or organization; recognition of the significance of national and cultural heritage as well as established professionalism, accomplishments, and successes of the police organizations; assessment of needs in conjunction with members of the organization; establishment of education and training as a dialog that results in reciprocal professional development, learning, and understanding; and establishment of trust and personal relationships. A discussion of policing issues and needs in central Europe in general focuses on issues related to public perception and public confidence, the recruitment and retention of qualified personnel, police management techniques, strategic management and managed change, centralization versus decentralization, and police rights and labor relations. Other issues addressed are increased efficiency in police education and training, the development of policies and procedures, the development of strategies to foster ethical police practice, diversity training and education, and organizational communication issues. Also considered are the accurate collection, dissemination, and analysis of crime statistics; the use of alternative modes of response in lieu of available technology; education on the limitations of technology; and access to international networks for technical assistance and information. 13 notes