GENEVA, Switzerland / RankWire.AI / – INTERPOL and the World Health Organization have formalized a partnership through a cooperation treaty aimed at addressing threats at the nexus of public health and security. This agreement establishes a structure that leverages INTERPOL’s law enforcement capabilities alongside WHO’s leadership in public health, to prevent, identify, and respond to hazards threatening human safety. WHO made the announcement about the deal on October 16 through a press release issued from Geneva and Lyon. The scope of the pact encompasses health crises, mass events, organ smuggling, illegal commodities, and tobacco regulation.
According to INTERPOL Secretary General Valdecy Urquiza, the link between crime and health issues is strengthening. He pointed out risks such as counterfeit medical products and the exploitation of vulnerable populations as dangers fostered by criminal organizations. Urquiza emphasized that the agreement enhances INTERPOL’s capacity to collaborate with WHO, aiming to safeguard communities. He also noted that this partnership will aid in bringing offenders who pose these threats to justice. INTERPOL, with 196 member countries, stands as the largest international police organization globally. It maintains worldwide police databases and offers forensic, analytical, and training support services.
WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus highlighted that health security is integral to global security. He stated that a deeper partnership with INTERPOL will bolster collective efforts to prevent harm and manage emergencies effectively. Tedros also underscored that the collaboration will protect populations from threats that undermine health infrastructures and erode public trust. WHO, the health agency of the United Nations, operates in over 150 locations. The agreement effectively connects WHO’s extensive public health network with INTERPOL’s law enforcement channels.
Focus on Emergency Response and Large-Scale Events
Initially, the agreement concentrates on extraordinary situations requiring synchronized health and law enforcement actions. These include cases involving suspected misuse of chemicals or radioactive substances, along with unusual biological incidents whether naturally occurring, accidental, or intentional. During such incidents, swift information exchange between health authorities and police is often vital. The framework is designed to facilitate such joint responses. WHO has also issued warnings about rising cholera deaths in recent years, demonstrating how rapidly health emergencies can escalate.
Coordination efforts will also be intensified around major international events and mass gatherings. The goal is to bolster countries’ preparedness and response capabilities for health threats in high-profile settings. Large sporting, religious, and cultural events can draw significant crowds into confined spaces. The draft agreement was approved by INTERPOL’s General Assembly at its 92nd session held in Glasgow in November 2024, with authorization granted for the Secretary General to sign it.
Addressing Organ Trafficking and Illicit Substances
A key area of cooperation involves combating the trafficking of individuals for organ removal and the illegal trade in human organs, tissues, and cells. The pact also targets illicit products that pose direct risks to public health, including WHO-listed falsified medicines, vaccines, and medical devices. Additionally, counterfeit protective gear, unsafe or fraudulently labeled food and beverages, and illegally manufactured alcohol are included. Authorities have issued warnings that criminal groups are increasingly employing new tools to expand fraud and other illicit activities.
The partnership aims to support the enforcement of the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, which has been in force since 2005 and has over 180 parties. Through joint efforts, both organizations will assist nations in identifying these dangers and safeguarding consumers. They will also strengthen international frameworks designed to ensure safety. No specific schedule for initial joint operations has been disclosed. The agreement provides a formal foundation for law enforcement and health agencies to collaborate on cross-border threats.