Since the 1960s, the United Nations has deployed police officers for service in peace operations. The Police components of peacekeeping operations and special political missions include; monitoring, observing, reporting, advisory, mentoring, and training functions. The specific services and types of assistance provided by the United Nations police are divided into three broad categories: interim law enforcement, security support to national police and law enforcement agencies, and reform, restructuring, and rebuilding of national police and law enforcement agencies. In order to attain success in peacekeeping operations and political missions, a strengthening in the rule of law is required. This handbook summarizes the international standards and norms for United Nations police. It is a code of conduct for police operating under the United Nations flag, and is a reference source to help national authorities improve policing. Areas included in this edition, not covered in the first edition published in 1994, include: 1) the issue of the integrity of police and other law enforcement officials; 2) assistance to victims, especially child victims; and 3) incorporates new criminal justice standards. Notes and references