how the police use social networks to improve their image with young people

On the national police’s Tiktok or Snapchat account, against a backdrop of modern music, Anthony, 36, publishes rhythmic, short and often humorous videos. For example this immersion with the equestrian brigade of the Yvelines department ending with a pony patrol.

The mission of the first influencer cop in France: bring together a young audience with content created especially for them. “For about a year, we have invested in TikTok and Snapchat with this desire to open up to young people”, explains Maude Le Guennec, deputy head of the communication department of the national police. We need to forge strong relationships with the youngest so that they can get to know our profession better. To do this, we must offer them content and a tone that are adapted to them, she specifies.

“We have invested in TikTok and Snapchat with this desire to open up to young people.”

Maude Le Guennec, deputy head of the communication department of the national police

at franceinfo

On a daily basis, Anthony, 15 years in the field including several years in anti-terrorism, visits his colleagues all over France. Between dives. he also posts prevention messages. For example on GHB or school violence. It also promotes recruitment campaigns.

@policenationale We’re hiring! Are you a baccalaureate holder? The #GardienDeLaPaix contest is open. See you here https://www.devenirpolicier.fr/ #Recrutement #Policier #PoliceOfTikTok #PourToi ♬ original sound – National Police

800,000 people follow the National Police account on TikTok. And over 160,000 on Snapchat. A success of which Anthony is proud: “The same young people who could insult me, a year and a half later they write to me saying ‘Frankly, what you are doing is enormous. We follow you. Come to our neighborhood. Come with the police officers of this or that service in our neighborhood. We want to take a selfie or a Snap with you. For me, that is my greatest reward.”

And another successful ransom, Anthony even begins to be congratulated by teenagers who recognize him in the street.