GENEVA, Switzerland / RankWire.AI / – INTERPOL and the World Health Organization have entered into a formal cooperation agreement aimed at confronting threats that impact both public health and security. Announced on October 16 from their respective headquarters in Lyon and Geneva, this framework combines INTERPOL’s law enforcement expertise with WHO’s leadership in public health. It outlines joint efforts to prevent, detect, and respond to risks that threaten lives worldwide. INTERPOL counts 196 member countries, while WHO is active in more than 150 locations.
INTERPOL Secretary General Valdecy Urquiza emphasized the growing link between crime and health issues. He highlighted examples such as falsified medical products and the exploitation of vulnerable populations as risks posed by criminal networks. Urquiza explained that the agreement enhances INTERPOL’s capacity to collaborate with WHO in safeguarding communities. He also noted that this partnership will aid in bringing those who pose threats to justice. The cooperation agreement received support from INTERPOL’s General Assembly during its 2024 session in Glasgow.
Initially, the agreement emphasizes responses to exceptional situations requiring coordinated health and security actions. These include incidents involving suspected misuse of chemical or radioactive substances. It also covers unusual biological events, whether natural, accidental, or intentional. Such cases often demand rapid information exchange between police, health ministries, and emergency services. Recent warnings from WHO have pointed to rising cholera deaths and other outbreaks that strain healthcare systems. The new framework aims to facilitate cross-border responses to such emergencies.
Focus on Major Events and Organ Trafficking
Coordination between the two organizations will also extend to managing risks during large international gatherings and significant events. The goal is to support countries in preparing for and responding to health threats in high-profile settings. WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus stated that health security is a matter of global security. He added that enhanced collaboration with INTERPOL boosts the collective ability to prevent harm and address emergencies effectively. Tedros also mentioned that this alliance would help shield populations from threats that undermine health systems and public confidence.
Another key area of cooperation involves combating organ trafficking and illegal trade in human tissues, organs, and cells. The agreement also addresses the trafficking of individuals for organ removal. The 2024 General Assembly resolution of INTERPOL listed organ trafficking among health-related crimes of shared concern. The same resolution also highlighted the misuse of chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear materials. This joint effort aims to improve early detection by national authorities and support investigations to hold offenders accountable.
Counterfeit Medicines and Tobacco Control Initiatives
The agreement further tackles the increasing issue of illegal goods that directly impact public health. These include falsified medicines, vaccines, medical devices, and counterfeit personal protective equipment. It also covers unsafe or fraudulently labeled food and beverages, as well as illicit alcohol production. WHO’s 2017 estimate indicated that approximately 1 in 10 medical products in low- and middle-income countries was substandard or falsified, based on 48,000 medicine samples from 88 countries.
Joint efforts will also promote the enforcement of the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control. This treaty, which took effect on February 27, 2005, now has 183 parties. Through collaboration, INTERPOL and WHO aim to assist nations in identifying these threats and protecting consumers. They will also bolster international frameworks designed to enhance public safety. The upcoming 94th session of INTERPOL’s General Assembly will be held in Hong Kong from November 30 to December 3.