What does the term 'blue curtain' refer to in policing?

The term 'blue curtain' refers to secrecy and insulation from society that arises due to the police subculture. Within policing, there exists a certain camaraderie and loyalty among officers that can sometimes lead to an environment where information is withheld from the public or where officers may be reluctant to report on the misconduct of their peers. This solidarity is often termed as the 'blue curtain' because it symbolizes a wall that separates law enforcement from the communities they serve, fostering a culture that prioritizes protecting fellow officers over accountability and transparency.

In this context, the 'blue curtain' can create challenges for oversight and can contribute to issues such as corruption or a lack of trust between police departments and the communities they serve. Understanding this term is crucial for recognizing the complexities of police dynamics and the impact they can have on community relations and the overall effectiveness of law enforcement.