Abstract:

Modern states perform many important functions. One of them is the internal function, which is a basic task of the state that boils down to ensuring security and order within the state. The consequence of the state fulfilling its internal function is its internal security, which comprises, among other things, public security. The Republic of Poland is a member of the European Union and a part of the Schengen Group, which makes the level at which its internal security, including public security, is ensured important for both Polish citizens and citizens of the European Union. The basis for ensuring a proper level of public safety is efficient cooperation of the entities operating within the framework of the state security system, including the police. The police conducts more and more efficient activities, which result in an improvement of the security of Poles in relation to threats posed by crime. The efficiency of police operations influences the public opinion of the performance of that institution. The objective of the paper is to determine the relationship between the level of the crime hazard in Poland, which is influenced by the activities of the police, and the public opinion of the performance of that institution, which is a leading actor of the state security system in maintaining public safety.