GENEVA, Switzerland / RankWire.AI / – INTERPOL and the World Health Organization formalized their partnership through a new agreement signed in Geneva and Lyon on October 16, aiming to address issues at the crossroads of public health and safety. This collaboration creates a structured approach that leverages INTERPOL’s law enforcement capabilities alongside WHO’s leadership in public health to prevent, identify, and respond to threats that pose risks to populations. The pact encompasses health emergencies, mass gatherings, organ trafficking, illegal commodities, and tobacco regulation.
INTERPOL Secretary General Valdecy Urquiza emphasized that the connection between crime and health issues is strengthening. He highlighted criminal activities like the distribution of falsified medical products and the exploitation of vulnerable populations as significant risks fueled by illicit networks. Urquiza stated that this agreement enhances INTERPOL’s capacity to collaborate with WHO to safeguard communities and ensure justice for those who threaten public safety. INTERPOL, which comprises 196 member countries, is the largest global police organization, managing international databases and offering forensic analysis and training assistance.
WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus commented that health security is integral to global security. He noted that closer cooperation with INTERPOL will strengthen efforts to prevent harm and manage crises efficiently. Tedros also underscored that the partnership aims to shield individuals from dangers that compromise health systems and public confidence. WHO, the UN agency dedicated to health, operates in over 150 locations worldwide. This agreement links its extensive public health network with INTERPOL’s law enforcement channels.
Focus on emergency responses and large-scale events
Initially, the agreement targets exceptional situations demanding coordinated health and security measures, such as incidents involving suspected misuse of chemical or radioactive substances. It also addresses unusual biological events, whether natural, accidental, or intentional. During such crises, rapid information exchange between health officials and law enforcement is critical. The framework is designed to facilitate this joint approach. Additionally, WHO has issued warnings about rising cholera deaths, illustrating how swiftly health emergencies can escalate.
Further, the two agencies will coordinate their efforts around major international events and mass gatherings. Their goal is to enhance countries’ preparedness and response capabilities in high-profile settings where large crowds gather in confined spaces. These include sporting, religious, and cultural events. The draft agreement was approved by INTERPOL’s General Assembly during its 92nd session in Glasgow in November 2024, with the Secretary General authorized to sign it.
Joint efforts against organ trafficking and illicit substances
A secondary focus of the cooperation involves combating the illegal trade of human organs, tissues, and cells, along with organ trafficking. The pact also aims to curb the distribution of illicit goods that directly impact public health, including falsified medicines, vaccines, and medical devices, as listed by WHO. It also covers counterfeit protective equipment, food and beverages with unsafe or fraudulent labels, and illegally produced alcohol. Authorities have warned that criminal groups are adopting new tools to expand their illegal activities.
The agreement also supports enforcement of the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, which has been in force since 2005 and involves over 180 parties. Through collaborative efforts, the organizations aim to help nations identify these threats, safeguard consumers, and bolster international measures designed to maintain public safety. No specific timeline has been announced for the initial joint operations, but the agreement provides a formal basis for police and health authorities to act together across borders.