Aim: The aim of this study is to provide comprehensive and organised knowledge about the development of public space surveillance systems in Europe, including Hungary.
Methodology: In this qualitative, descriptive-analytical research, the Author provides a historical overview that examines the reasons behind the different levels of adoption of public space surveillance systems in various European countries. This is done by studying domestic and foreign literature, as well as analysing and evaluating information available on the internet.
Findings: The speed of adoption, the extent of implementation, the supervision and usage methods, and the purpose of installation of these systems vary between countries in Europe. This is mainly determined by the political, social, criminal, economic, and legal context of each country.
Value: The comprehensive historical overview that presents the development and history of the application of surveillance cameras is a crucial and much-needed element in Hungarian literature. The research results highlight the varying roles that surveillance cameras play in ensuring the security of public spaces and preventing crime across European countries.