The author rejects the simplistic assumptions that more safety achieved by the police automatically results in less freedom for citizens and that a higher level of police efficiency inevitably leads to civil rights infringements. Safety as a necessary element of citizen rights must be guaranteed by accountable and effective forms of policing; however, policing must be so managed and controlled that it does not itself become a threat to public safety and citizens' rights. This report describes the control of police power as a necessary part of the state apparatus. It provides an overview of the existing network of internal, administrative, parliamentarian, judiciary, and civil (nongovernment/social movements) control agencies and mechanisms in European countries. In its conclusions, the report introduces the concept of ethical standards as a means of effective, high-quality police management. The report also summarizes the guidelines for the organization and control of security services in European countries as developed by the parliamentary assembly of the Council of Europe. 46 references