INTERPOL: International Criminal Police Organization

INTERPOL (International Criminal Police Organization) is a global law enforcement agency that facilitates international police cooperation. Founded in 1923, it helps member countries combat transnational crime, terrorism, and cybercrime by sharing data, issuing alerts, and coordinating operations.

Headquarters: Lyon, France
Founded in: 7 September, 1923 in Vienna, Austria
President: Ahmed Naser Al - Raisi
Abbreviation: ICPO - Interpol
Website: www.interpol.int

Overview

INTERPOL, the International Criminal Police Organization, is the world’s largest international police organization. It facilitates cooperation among law enforcement agencies from different countries to combat transnational crimes such as terrorism, cybercrime, human trafficking, and drug smuggling. With 196 member countries, INTERPOL plays a vital role in maintaining global security and ensuring criminals have nowhere to hide. This article by Academic Block explores the history, structure, functions, challenges, and significance of Interpol in the contemporary global landscape.

What is INTERPOL?

INTERPOL (International Criminal Police Organization) is a global law enforcement agency that facilitates international police cooperation. It helps member countries share criminal intelligence, track fugitives, and combat transnational crime such as terrorism, human trafficking, cybercrime, and drug trafficking.

INTERPOL operates databases for stolen passports, fingerprints, and DNA, and issues notices (like Red Notices) to alert countries about wanted criminals. While it doesn't conduct arrests itself, it provides critical support in investigations and helps coordinate international operations to ensure criminals cannot escape justice by crossing borders. INTERPOL has 196 member countries, making it the world's largest police network.

History of INTERPOL

(i) Early Beginnings of INTERPOL (1923 - 1945)

The idea of international police cooperation emerged in the early 20th century. In 1923, the International Criminal Police Commission (ICPC) was established in Vienna, Austria, by Dr. Johannes Schober, the then-chief of the Vienna Police. The ICPC aimed to promote collaboration among police forces across national borders.
However, during World War II, the organization was taken over by Nazi Germany, which disrupted its work. After the war ended, efforts were made to re-establish international law enforcement cooperation.

(ii) Post-War Revival and Growth of INTERPOL (1946 - 2000)

In 1946, ICPC was restructured, and in 1956, it was officially renamed INTERPOL. The organization moved its headquarters from Vienna to Paris, and later, in 1989, it was relocated to Lyon, France, where it remains today.
INTERPOL expanded significantly during the Cold War era, adapting to new challenges such as drug trafficking, organized crime, and terrorism.

(iii) Modernization and Digital Transformation of INTERPOL (2000 - Present)

Since the early 2000s, INTERPOL has embraced technological advancements to enhance crime-fighting efforts. It now uses databases, biometric identification, and cybersecurity tools to track criminals worldwide.
The rise of cybercrime, human trafficking, and financial fraud has made INTERPOL’s role more crucial than ever.

How Does INTERPOL Work?

INTERPOL helps member countries by providing criminal intelligence sharing, coordinating international investigations, and supporting efforts to capture fugitives. It does not directly arrest criminals but plays a vital role in enabling cooperation between law enforcement agencies globally.

Key Components of INTERPOL’s Work:

A. Global Police Databases: INTERPOL operates real-time databases accessible by global law enforcement.

Stolen and Lost Travel Documents (SLTD)
DNA Database
Fingerprint Database
Stolen Motor Vehicles Database

Tracks stolen or fake passports to prevent international fraud.
Stores genetic data to solve crimes and identify suspects or victims.
Identifies criminals and missing persons by matching fingerprints.
Assists in the recovery of stolen cars and motorcycles worldwide.

B. Red Notices & Other Alerts: INTERPOL issues notices to warn about threats and locate criminals.

Red Notice
Blue Notice
Green Notice
Yellow Notice

Requests the arrest of a wanted criminal for extradition.
Collects information about a suspect’s identity and activities.
Warns about criminals who may pose a threat to security.
Helps locate missing persons, particularly in human trafficking cases.

C. Special Crime-Fighting Units: INTERPOL has specialized units to handle specific crimes.

Counter-Terrorism Unit
Cybercrime Unit
Human Trafficking Task Force
Environmental Crime Unit

Monitors and prevents terrorism-related activities globally.
Investigates cybercrime, including hacking and financial fraud.
Focuses on tracking traffickers and rescuing victims of modern slavery.
Works to combat illegal wildlife trade and environmental crimes.

D. National Central Bureaus (NCBs): Each country’s link to INTERPOL, assisting with information exchange and coordination.

Structure of INTERPOL

INTERPOL is organized into various components that ensure effective international law enforcement collaboration. Here's an overview of its structure:

General Secretariat : Located in Lyon, France, the General Secretariat manages day-to-day operations and coordinates activities across member countries.
Executive Committee : Comprised of senior law enforcement officials, the Executive Committee guides INTERPOL's policies, strategy, and decision-making processes.
Presidency : The President represents INTERPOL at the highest level and oversees its global leadership.
National Central Bureaus (NCBs) : Each of INTERPOL’s 196 member countries has an NCB that links local police with the international organization. These bureaus ensure efficient communication and coordination.
Regional Offices : INTERPOL has several regional offices worldwide that enhance cooperation in specific regions. These offices focus on regional crime issues.
Specialized Units : INTERPOL has dedicated units for various crime types, including counter-terrorism, cybercrime, human trafficking, and environmental crimes.
General Secretariat Staff : INTERPOL employs a global team of experts that manage operations, research, and data collection.

This INTERPOL structure supports its role in global law enforcement coordination and helps address various international crime challenges.

Role of INTERPOL in Fighting International Crime

INTERPOL plays a significant role in preventing, investigating, and combating crimes that cross international borders. Below are some key areas:

Counter-Terrorism : INTERPOL tracks terrorist movements, identifies suspects, and prevents attacks through intelligence-sharing. It collaborates with agencies like the United Nations (UN), Europol, and national security forces.
Cybercrime & Online Fraud : With the rise of digital crime, INTERPOL works to:

Track hacking and ransomware attacks.
Shut down illegal dark web markets.
Prevent financial fraud and identity theft.

Human Trafficking & Child Exploitation : INTERPOL combats human trafficking networks, rescues victims, and arrests traffickers. It also operates the International Child Sexual Exploitation (ICSE) Database to identify victims and predators.
Drug Smuggling & Organized Crime : INTERPOL helps law enforcement agencies seize illegal drugs and dismantle criminal syndicates involved in drug trafficking, money laundering, and arms smuggling.
Corruption & Financial Crimes : INTERPOL collaborates with financial regulators to track down money launderers, tax evaders, and corrupt officials hiding assets overseas.

Functions of INTERPOL

INTERPOL's functions are designed to enhance international police cooperation and support member countries in tackling transnational crime. The key areas of its operations are outlined in the table below:

Police Support Services

Provides notices (e.g., Red Notices), maintains databases (criminals, stolen property), and offers forensic expertise.

Operational Support and Analysis

Assists in cross-border investigations by coordinating operations, providing analytical support, and identifying crime trends.

Capacity Building and Training

Offers specialized training programs, workshops, and technical assistance to improve law enforcement capabilities.

Advocacy and Outreach

Raises awareness about the importance of international cooperation and works on public campaigns to combat crime like human trafficking and cybercrime.

These four core functions help INTERPOL support global law enforcement efforts, facilitate information exchange, and strengthen member countries' crime-fighting capacity.

Challenges & Controversies Faced by INTERPOL

While INTERPOL is an essential organization, it faces several challenges:

Political Misuse : Some countries abuse Red Notices to target political dissidents or activists. Critics argue that authoritarian governments sometimes use INTERPOL to harass opponents instead of actual criminals.
Limited Enforcement Power : INTERPOL does not have its own police officers to arrest criminals. It depends on national governments, which may not always cooperate.
Cybersecurity Threats : As INTERPOL collects vast amounts of sensitive data, it is a target for hackers. Strengthening its cybersecurity infrastructure is crucial.
Funding & Resource Constraints : INTERPOL operates on a budget funded by member countries, private partners, and donors. However, some nations fail to contribute adequately, limiting its capacity.

Significance of INTERPOL

Global Police Cooperation : INTERPOL connects law enforcement agencies from 196 countries, facilitating cross-border cooperation to tackle international crime.
Crime Intelligence Sharing : Provides a centralized platform for exchanging criminal data, including fingerprints, DNA, and stolen property information, aiding in investigations.
Support for Complex Investigations : Assists in complex international operations by offering expert analysis, resources, and coordination.
Combatting Transnational Crime : Focuses on a wide range of crimes like terrorism, cybercrime, human trafficking, drug trafficking, and environmental crimes.
Red Notices : Issuing Red Notices helps member countries locate and apprehend criminals on the run, facilitating international extradition.
Capacity Building : Enhances law enforcement agencies’ skills and resources through training and technical assistance to improve global crime-fighting efforts.
Promoting Legal Cooperation : Advocates for international legal frameworks and strengthens partnerships with other global organizations to combat crime effectively.

Final Words

In conclusion, Interpol occupies a central position in the global law enforcement architecture, facilitating international cooperation and coordination to combat transnational crime effectively. Despite facing challenges such as political misuse and technological advancements, Interpol continues to adapt and evolve to address emerging threats and enhance the capacity of member countries to respond to evolving security challenges. As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, Interpol's role in fostering cooperation, sharing intelligence, and promoting global security remains indispensable in ensuring a safer and more secure future for all. Hope you enjoyed reading with Academic Block, please provide your insightful thoughts to make this article better. Thanks for Reading!

This Article will answer your questions like:

+ What is INTERPOL and what does it do? >

INTERPOL, the International Criminal Police Organization, facilitates international police cooperation. It provides a secure communication network for law enforcement agencies to share information on crime, track criminals, and coordinate global investigations. INTERPOL helps maintain international law enforcement collaboration to combat crimes like human trafficking, terrorism, and cybercrime, while also providing resources like training and analytical support.

+ What is INTERPOL full form? >

INTERPOL stands for the International Criminal Police Organization. Established in 1923, it serves as the world’s largest international police network, supporting law enforcement efforts to prevent and investigate crime across borders. INTERPOL aids in the coordination of criminal investigations, extradition requests, and the identification of suspects, fostering a global approach to combating transnational crime.

+ Is INTERPOL higher than FBI? >

INTERPOL and the FBI are distinct organizations with different roles and jurisdictions. INTERPOL operates internationally, facilitating cross-border police cooperation, while the FBI is a national agency focused on law enforcement within the United States. Neither is inherently "higher" than the other; instead, they collaborate for global law enforcement objectives, with the FBI being a key partner in U.S.-based criminal investigations.

+ What countries are INTERPOL? >

INTERPOL comprises 195 member countries, including nations across all continents. Its members include both large countries like the United States and China and smaller ones like San Marino and the Maldives. This vast network allows for global law enforcement cooperation, making INTERPOL instrumental in tackling international crime through information sharing, investigations, and coordinated action.

+ What is the role of the INTERPOL? >

INTERPOL’s role is to facilitate international police cooperation, enabling law enforcement agencies to combat transnational crimes such as terrorism, human trafficking, cybercrime, and drug smuggling. By providing communication networks, issuing Red Notices for wanted criminals, and offering investigative support, INTERPOL ensures coordinated global efforts in crime prevention and the apprehension of fugitives.

+ What does INTERPOL actually do? >

INTERPOL helps law enforcement worldwide to identify criminals, prevent crime, and facilitate cross-border cooperation. It provides services like issuing Red Notices for international wanted criminals, sharing intelligence, offering training for police personnel, and managing a secure global police communications system. Its primary aim is to help police forces combat crimes that cross national borders.

+ Can an American join INTERPOL? >

While INTERPOL itself does not employ officers directly, law enforcement officers, including Americans, can collaborate with INTERPOL through their respective national agencies. American citizens can join the FBI or other U.S. law enforcement agencies, which often work closely with INTERPOL in global investigations and exchanges of criminal intelligence and evidence.

+ How to join INTERPOL Organization? >

INTERPOL does not have a direct recruitment process for individuals. Instead, INTERPOL’s work involves cooperation between national police forces. To work with INTERPOL, one would typically need to be employed by a law enforcement agency in a member country. There are, however, opportunities for those in law enforcement to engage with INTERPOL through secondments, which allow them to assist in international investigations.

+ Where is INTERPOL headquarters? >

INTERPOL’s General Secretariat, its main headquarters, is located in Lyon, France. The facility serves as the central hub for the organization’s global operations, housing its administrative offices, command center, and strategic decision-making units. INTERPOL also has regional offices around the world, extending its reach for law enforcement cooperation across continents.

+ When was INTERPOL established? >

INTERPOL was established in 1923 as the International Criminal Police Commission (ICPC) in Vienna, Austria. Its creation was in response to growing international crime and the need for global cooperation between police forces. In 1956, it adopted the name INTERPOL, and its headquarters moved to Lyon, France, in 1989 to better coordinate global law enforcement efforts.

+ What is INTERPOL's primary purpose? >

INTERPOL's primary purpose is to facilitate international cooperation among police forces to combat transnational crime. It does so by providing secure communication networks, issuing alerts like Red Notices for wanted criminals, and coordinating multinational investigations. Through these actions, INTERPOL ensures that criminals cannot escape justice by crossing borders.

+ What is the mission of the INTERPOL? >

INTERPOL's mission is to facilitate international collaboration in law enforcement, enabling police agencies around the world to fight international crime effectively. This includes combating terrorism, organized crime, cybercrime, human trafficking, and drug trafficking. INTERPOL provides police with critical tools such as databases, analysis, and direct communication networks to help coordinate cross-border efforts.

+ What are the major achievements of INTERPOL in recent years? >

INTERPOL has achieved significant success in recent years, notably in combatting cybercrime, trafficking, and terrorism. It played a crucial role in major international operations, such as tracking down notorious criminals, disrupting drug trafficking networks, and supporting anti-terrorism efforts worldwide. By modernizing its data systems and expanding global cooperation, INTERPOL continues to advance the international security landscape.

+ What are the eligibility criteria for countries to join INTERPOL? >

To join INTERPOL, a country must have a functioning police force capable of supporting international cooperation in crime prevention. Membership is open to any sovereign nation with a national police authority, and the country must adhere to the principles of international law and human rights. The country must also maintain regular contact with INTERPOL’s global network to exchange criminal information and provide resources for international law enforcement initiatives.

+ How does INTERPOL issue Red Notices, and what do they signify? >

INTERPOL issues Red Notices to request the arrest or location of individuals wanted for serious crimes. A Red Notice is not an international arrest warrant but a tool for alerting law enforcement globally. It serves as a request to locate and provisionally arrest a person pending extradition. The notice is based on the legal framework established by member countries, who may decide to act on the request according to their own legal systems.

+ What challenges does INTERPOL face in the current global security environment? >

INTERPOL faces challenges in adapting to the rapid advancement of technology and the global nature of crime. Cybercrime, terrorism, and transnational organized crime require increasingly sophisticated tools and coordination across jurisdictions. Furthermore, political and legal barriers in some countries hinder seamless international collaboration, requiring INTERPOL to continuously negotiate and navigate diverse legal systems and national interests.

+ What role does INTERPOL play in fighting human trafficking and drug smuggling? >

INTERPOL plays a critical role in combatting human trafficking and drug smuggling by facilitating international cooperation. Through information exchange, coordination of operations, and deployment of specialized resources, INTERPOL supports member countries in disrupting criminal networks. It assists in identifying and apprehending traffickers, dismantling smuggling routes, and providing intelligence to curb the global trade in illicit drugs and human exploitation.

Role of Interpol in counterterrorism efforts

Information Exchange: Interpol serves as a hub for the exchange of terrorism-related information among its 195 member countries. Through its secure communication channels and databases, such as I-24/7, Interpol enables law enforcement agencies worldwide to share intelligence, analyze trends, and identify links between terrorist networks operating across different jurisdictions. This information exchange is crucial for detecting, preventing, and disrupting terrorist activities before they occur.

Operational Support: Interpol provides operational support to member countries in conducting counterterrorism operations and investigations. This includes coordinating joint operations, facilitating cross-border cooperation, and deploying specialized teams to assist in responding to terrorist threats or incidents. Interpol’s operational support enhances the capacity of member countries to collaborate effectively in addressing transnational terrorism and apprehending suspects involved in terrorist activities.

Capacity Building and Training: Interpol conducts specialized training programs, workshops, and exercises to enhance the counterterrorism capabilities of law enforcement agencies worldwide. These capacity-building efforts cover a wide range of areas, including counterterrorism tactics, intelligence analysis, border security, and the use of technology in combating terrorism. By improving the skills and knowledge of law enforcement personnel, Interpol strengthens the global response to terrorism and promotes effective coordination among diverse stakeholders.

Database Management: Interpol manages databases containing information on suspected terrorists, foreign terrorist fighters, stolen travel documents, and other relevant data. These databases serve as valuable resources for member countries in identifying and tracking individuals involved in terrorist activities, preventing their movement across borders, and disrupting terrorist networks. Interpol’s database management capabilities enable timely and accurate information sharing, contributing to the effectiveness of counterterrorism efforts worldwide.

Preventing Terrorist Financing: Interpol works closely with international partners, such as financial institutions and regulatory bodies, to combat terrorist financing and disrupt the flow of funds to terrorist organizations. Through its Financial Crimes unit and collaboration with organizations like the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), Interpol helps identify and investigate financial transactions linked to terrorism, strengthen regulatory frameworks, and build capacity among law enforcement agencies to combat terrorist financing effectively.

Public Awareness and Outreach: Interpol engages in public awareness campaigns and outreach activities to raise awareness about the threat of terrorism and the importance of international cooperation in countering this threat. By fostering partnerships with civil society organizations, academia, and the private sector, Interpol mobilizes support for counterterrorism efforts and promotes community resilience against radicalization and violent extremism.

Success stories and achievements of Interpol

Operation Infra-Red: In 2012, Interpol launched Operation Infra-Red, a global initiative targeting fugitives wanted for serious crimes such as murder, human trafficking, and drug trafficking. The operation resulted in the arrest of hundreds of fugitives worldwide and the resolution of numerous outstanding cases.

Operation Pangea: Interpol leads Operation Pangea, an annual global operation targeting the illegal online sale of counterfeit medicines and medical products. Since its inception in 2008, Operation Pangea has led to the seizure of millions of counterfeit medicines and the dismantling of numerous illegal online pharmacies operating across borders.

Rescue of Trafficked Persons: Interpol coordinates international efforts to combat human trafficking and rescue victims of trafficking. In one notable operation in 2020, Interpol coordinated the rescue of over 500 victims of human trafficking, including women and children, in a series of raids conducted across 22 countries.

Counterterrorism Operations: Interpol plays a crucial role in coordinating international counterterrorism operations and disrupting terrorist networks. In 2015, Interpol launched Operation Strikeback, targeting foreign terrorist fighters traveling to conflict zones in Syria and Iraq. The operation led to the arrest of numerous individuals and the identification of thousands of suspected foreign terrorist fighters.

Fugitive Arrests: Interpol assists member countries in locating and apprehending fugitives wanted for serious crimes worldwide. In various operations, Interpol’s Red Notices have facilitated the arrest of high-profile fugitives, including individuals involved in terrorism, organized crime, corruption, and financial fraud.

Child Sexual Exploitation: Interpol conducts operations to combat child sexual exploitation and abuse, resulting in the identification and rescue of victims and the arrest of perpetrators. In one operation, Interpol coordinated the rescue of over 50 children and the arrest of dozens of suspects involved in online child exploitation networks.

Cybercrime Investigations: Interpol collaborates with law enforcement agencies and private sector partners to combat cybercrime and enhance cybersecurity. Through initiatives such as Operation HAECHI, Interpol has targeted cybercriminals involved in online fraud, ransomware attacks, and other cyber threats, leading to significant arrests and disruptions.

Stolen Art Recoveries: Interpol assists member countries in recovering stolen cultural artifacts and artwork through its database of stolen works of art. In several cases, Interpol’s efforts have led to the recovery and repatriation of valuable cultural heritage items to their rightful owners and countries of origin.

Interpol Notices, types and its uses

Meaning: Interpol notices are international alerts issued by Interpol to assist law enforcement agencies in locating and apprehending fugitives, suspects, missing persons, or individuals wanted for extradition. These notices serve as powerful tools for sharing information about criminal activities and facilitating cooperation among member countries in combating transnational crime.

Interpol issues several types of notices, each serving a specific purpose and carrying different levels of significance. Here are the main types of Interpol notices and how they are used:

Red Notice: A Red Notice is the most well-known and serious type of Interpol notice. It is issued to seek the location and arrest of a person wanted by a member country for extradition. Red Notices are based on valid national arrest warrants issued by member countries and provide essential information about the individual, including their identity, physical description, photograph, and details of the criminal offense they are wanted for. Red Notices serve as international requests for cooperation, enabling law enforcement agencies worldwide to detain the subject pending extradition proceedings.

Blue Notice: A Blue Notice is issued to collect additional information about a person’s identity, location, or activities in relation to a crime. Unlike Red Notices, Blue Notices do not necessarily indicate that the individual is wanted for arrest or extradition. Instead, they serve as alerts to law enforcement agencies, providing supplementary information that may assist in ongoing investigations or criminal proceedings.

Green Notice: A Green Notice is issued to provide warnings and criminal intelligence about individuals who have committed criminal offenses and are likely to repeat these crimes in other countries. Green Notices are used to alert law enforcement agencies about potential threats posed by individuals with criminal records or patterns of behavior that could endanger public safety or security.

Yellow Notice: A Yellow Notice is issued to help locate missing persons, especially minors, or to identify individuals who are unable to identify themselves. Yellow Notices provide information about the missing person’s identity, physical description, photograph, and any relevant circumstances surrounding their disappearance. They serve as international alerts to assist in locating and reuniting missing persons with their families or caregivers.

Black Notice: A Black Notice is issued to seek information about unidentified bodies. Black Notices provide descriptions of unidentified deceased individuals, including their physical characteristics, clothing, and any distinctive features or markings. They are used to solicit assistance from law enforcement agencies, forensic experts, and the public in identifying the deceased and determining the circumstances of their death.

Criticisms and Controversies surrounding Interpol

Political Misuse: One of the most significant criticisms leveled against Interpol is the alleged political misuse of its notices by some member countries. There have been instances where Interpol notices, particularly Red Notices (which request the location and arrest of a person wanted by a member country for extradition), have been issued for political purposes rather than legitimate law enforcement objectives. Critics argue that some countries abuse Interpol’s mechanisms to target political opponents or activists, leading to concerns about the organization’s impartiality and credibility.

Lack of Transparency: Another criticism is the perceived lack of transparency in Interpol’s operations and decision-making processes. Critics argue that the organization’s procedures for issuing notices and handling requests for assistance lack sufficient transparency and accountability, raising questions about the fairness and legitimacy of its actions. Transparency issues have also been raised concerning Interpol’s governance structure and financial management practices.

Human Rights Concerns: Interpol has faced scrutiny over its handling of cases involving human rights abuses, particularly extradition requests from countries with questionable human rights records. Critics argue that Interpol should have mechanisms in place to prevent the abuse of its processes to target individuals facing persecution or unfair treatment in their home countries. Concerns have been raised about Interpol’s adherence to human rights standards and its ability to ensure due process in its operations.

Data Security and Privacy: With the increasing digitization of law enforcement activities, concerns have been raised about data security and privacy within Interpol’s systems. Critics argue that the organization must strengthen its data protection measures to prevent unauthorized access or misuse of sensitive information stored in its databases. There are also concerns about the potential for abuse of Interpol’s databases for surveillance purposes or by authoritarian regimes to target dissenters.

Geopolitical Influence: Interpol operates within a complex geopolitical landscape, which can sometimes lead to allegations of undue influence or bias. Critics argue that powerful member countries may exert influence over Interpol’s operations or use the organization to advance their own political agendas, undermining its neutrality and effectiveness. The organization’s ability to navigate geopolitical tensions while upholding its principles of sovereignty and non-interference remains a subject of debate.

Process by which a country can become a member of Interpol

Expressing Interest: The first step for a country interested in joining Interpol is to express its intention to do so. This typically involves formal communication from the government or relevant authorities expressing the country’s desire to become a member and outlining its reasons for seeking membership.

Assessment of Eligibility: Interpol assesses the eligibility of the interested country based on several criteria, including its commitment to international cooperation in law enforcement, adherence to democratic principles and the rule of law, respect for human rights, and compatibility with Interpol’s values and objectives.

Submission of Application: Once deemed eligible, the interested country submits a formal application for membership to Interpol’s General Secretariat. The application must include relevant documentation and information demonstrating the country’s commitment to meeting the obligations and responsibilities of Interpol membership.

Review and Approval: Interpol’s General Assembly, which comprises representatives from member countries, reviews the application for membership. The General Assembly evaluates the applicant country’s qualifications, assesses its suitability for membership, and votes on whether to approve its accession to Interpol.

Acceptance of Membership: If the applicant country’s membership application is approved by the General Assembly, it officially becomes a member of Interpol. The country is then granted access to Interpol’s resources, databases, and cooperation mechanisms, allowing its law enforcement agencies to participate in international police cooperation activities facilitated by Interpol.

Integration and Participation: As a new member of Interpol, the country integrates into the organization’s structure and participates in its activities and initiatives. This may include appointing a National Central Bureau (NCB) as the country’s designated liaison with Interpol’s General Secretariat and cooperating with other member countries on joint operations, information sharing, and capacity-building efforts.

Academic References on the Interpol

Books:

Abrahamsen, R., & Williams, M. C. (2011). Security beyond the state: Private security in international politics. Cambridge University Press.
Archer, C. (2019). Interpol and the international policing community. Springer.
Brodeur, J.-P. (2010). The police malaise: An international perspective. Sage Publications.
Deflem, M. (2008). International police cooperation: History, concepts, and controversies. Stanford University Press.
Elliott, L., & Varese, F. (Eds.). (2019). The Palgrave handbook of criminology and war. Palgrave Macmillan.
Nadelmann, E. A. (Ed.). (2011). Global prohibition regimes: The evolution of norms in international society. Routledge.

Journal Articles:

Chacon, A. (2019). Interpol’s Reform and the Changing Landscape of International Police Cooperation. Crime, Law and Social Change, 71(5), 563-582.
Deflem, M. (2000). Bureaucratization and social control: Historical foundations of international police cooperation. Law & Society Review, 34(3), 739-776.
Den Boer, M. (2012). International policing in practice: The Interpol case. Policing and Society, 22(4), 411-424.
Hough, M. (2011). The challenges facing international policing: How the International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol) is meeting these challenges. Policing: An International Journal of Police Strategies & Management, 34(1), 169-184.
Lentini, P., & Huston, J. (2017). Strengthening the global law enforcement community: The critical role of Interpol. International Journal of Police Science & Management, 19(3), 207-216.
Neuwirth, R. J. (2018). The role of Interpol in international criminal justice. Journal of Criminal Law & Criminology, 108(4), 745-770.

INTERPOL: Members, Headquarters & Countries