The International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol) comprises police officers from more than 180 countries who collaborate in apprehending criminals involved in cross-border crimes. They exchange information on offenders and assist one another in resolving criminal cases. Despite the absence of a formal treaty or agreement, the United Nations acknowledges Interpol as a significant organisation dedicated to ensuring public safety.
Interpol, the International Criminal Police Organization, was established in 1923 and is headquartered in Lyons, France. Comprising over 180 member nations, its primary objective is to collect and exchange information on transnational criminals. What sets Interpol apart is that it operates as an intergovernmental entity without being bound by any formal treaty or convention. Its founding document, a constitution drafted by a group of police officers, has not been subjected to diplomatic signatures or government ratification. Nevertheless, Interpol has received de facto recognition since its inception. In 1971, the United Nations’ Economic and Social Council officially designated Interpol as an “intergovernmental agency,” providing a form of de jure legitimacy. For instance, if a criminal commits a crime in one country and seeks refuge in another, Interpol can aid in apprehending the offender by facilitating information sharing and coordination between law enforcement agencies in both countries. This ensures that criminals cannot evade justice by simply crossing borders.
INTERPOL is an international organisation that facilitates cooperation among law enforcement agencies from different countries to combat transnational crime and maintain global security.
INTERPOL operates by providing a platform for member countries to exchange information, coordinate investigations, and assist each other in apprehending criminals who have crossed international borders.
INTERPOL membership is open to countries that are recognized as sovereign states by the international community and have a functioning national law enforcement agency.
INTERPOL’s main functions include facilitating international police cooperation, conducting criminal intelligence analysis, coordinating global operations, and providing support to member countries in combating various forms of crime.
No, INTERPOL does not have the authority to arrest individuals. However, it can issue international arrest warrants, known as Red Notices, which request member countries to arrest and extradite wanted individuals.
An individual can challenge an INTERPOL Red Notice by submitting a request for review to the Commission for the Control of INTERPOL’s Files (CCF), which is an independent body responsible for ensuring compliance with INTERPOL’s rules and regulations.
INTERPOL respects the principle of non-intervention in the internal affairs of member countries. It can only assist member countries upon their request or when authorized by the organisation’s rules and regulations.
INTERPOL is committed to upholding human rights and ensuring that its activities are conducted in accordance with international law. It has established safeguards, such as the CCF, to prevent abuse of its systems and protect individuals’ rights.
Yes, INTERPOL has a database called the International Child Sexual Exploitation (ICSE) database, which contains information on missing children and individuals involved in child exploitation cases. Member countries can access this database to aid in locating missing persons.
A country can request assistance from INTERPOL by contacting its National Central Bureau (NCB), which serves as the main point of contact between the country and INTERPOL. The NCB will then liaise with INTERPOL to facilitate the requested assistance.
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This glossary post was last updated: 17th April 2024.
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