In an increasingly interconnected world, the fight against transnational crime requires more than isolated national efforts. Recognising this need, INTERPOL initiated the Dialogue on an Effective Multilateral Policing Architecture Against Global Threats in 2016. This unique forum brings together regional policing organisations and major intergovernmental security stakeholders under INTERPOL’s global umbrella to foster high-level discussions and coordinated actions against global security threats.
Establishment and purpose
The Dialogue was established based on INTERPOL’s conviction that a comprehensive and coordinated global approach is essential to address cross-continental security threats effectively. This high-level process aims to improve mutual cooperation, enhance the exchange of information and best practices, and minimise duplication of efforts among key international and regional law enforcement stakeholders.
By facilitating regular discussions, the Dialogue strives to align the strategies of participating organisations, ensuring that their operational efforts are complementary rather than redundant. This coordination is crucial for the successful interception of criminals and terrorists, particularly at border points where seamless information sharing can make the difference between prevention and oversight.
Participants in the Dialogue
The Dialogue includes high-level delegates from a diverse array of organisations, reflecting the global scope of the initiative. These organisations are:
- AFRIPOL (African Union Mechanism for Police Cooperation)
- AMERIPOL (Police Community of the Americas)
- ASEANAPOL (ASEAN Chiefs of Police)
- Arab Interior Ministers Council
- Economic Cooperation Organization
- EUROPOL (European Union Agency for Law Enforcement Cooperation)
- European Border and Coast Guard Agency – Frontex
- Gulf Cooperation Council-POL
- INTERPOL
Additionally, the Dialogue includes observer organisations that contribute to its comprehensive perspective:
- Shanghai Cooperation Organization
- United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC)
The need for the Dialogue
The effectiveness of global crime-fighting efforts hinges on the alignment and coordination of strategies across regional and international policing and border management organisations. The Dialogue addresses several critical needs:
- Aligning strategies: By bringing together diverse organisations, the Dialogue ensures that their strategies are harmonised, reducing the risk of conflicting or redundant efforts.
- Coordinating operational efforts: Enhanced cooperation allows for more coordinated operations, maximising the impact of collective efforts against global threats.
- Information sharing: One of the major obstacles in combating transnational crime is the lack of efficient information sharing. The Dialogue seeks to remove these barriers, ensuring that vital information is accessible to police and customs officers on the frontlines.
- Preventing duplication: By fostering mutual understanding and cooperation, the Dialogue helps to minimise the duplication of efforts, allowing resources to be used more efficiently.
- Enhancing security: Ultimately, the Dialogue contributes to a safer global environment by improving the ability to intercept and prevent the movement of terrorists and criminals across borders.
Key takeaways
INTERPOL’s Dialogue on an Effective Multilateral Policing Architecture Against Global Threats represents a critical step forward in the fight against transnational crime. By facilitating high-level discussions and fostering cooperation among the world’s leading regional policing organisations and intergovernmental security stakeholders, the Dialogue ensures that global efforts are coordinated, efficient, and effective. This collaborative approach is essential for addressing the complex and evolving threats posed by global crime, making the world a safer place for all.
