GENEVA, Switzerland / RankWire.AI / – INTERPOL and the World Health Organization have entered into a formal cooperation agreement aimed at addressing threats where public health and security intersect. This framework unites INTERPOL’s law enforcement capabilities with WHO’s expertise in health to enhance efforts in prevention, detection, and response to risks that threaten lives. WHO revealed details of this pact on October 16 via a statement issued from Geneva and Lyon. The agreement encompasses areas such as health crises, large-scale gatherings, organ trafficking, illegal substances, and tobacco regulation.
INTERPOL Secretary General Valdecy Urquiza emphasized the growing link between crime and health issues. He pointed out that criminal networks contribute to dangers like counterfeit medical products and the exploitation of vulnerable populations. Urquiza stated that this partnership boosts INTERPOL’s capacity to work alongside WHO to safeguard communities, and will help bring those responsible for these threats to justice. As the world’s largest international police organization, INTERPOL, with 196 member countries, manages global police databases and offers forensic, analytical, and training support.
WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus highlighted that health security is a component of overall global security. He noted that closer cooperation with INTERPOL enhances collective efforts to prevent harm and effectively respond to emergencies. Tedros added that the alliance will also serve to shield populations from dangers that weaken health systems and erode public confidence. WHO, as the United Nations health agency, operates in over 150 locations worldwide. The agreement connects WHO’s extensive public health network with INTERPOL’s policing channels.
Focus on Emergency Response and Large-Scale Events
Initially, the agreement concentrates on exceptional situations requiring synchronized health and security measures. These include incidents involving suspected misuse of chemical or radioactive materials, as well as unusual biological events—whether natural, accidental, or deliberate. In such cases, timely information sharing between health officials and law enforcement is critical. The framework aims to facilitate these joint responses. WHO has also issued warnings about rising cholera deaths in recent years, illustrating how swiftly health emergencies can escalate.
Additionally, the two organizations will coordinate their efforts during major international events and mass gatherings. The goal is to better prepare and respond to health threats in high-profile settings. Large-scale sporting, religious, and cultural gatherings often attract vast crowds in confined spaces. The draft agreement was approved by INTERPOL’s General Assembly at its 92nd session held in Glasgow in November 2024, with the Secretary General authorized to sign the document.
Targeting Organ Trafficking and Illicit Substances
A secondary focus of the partnership is combating the trafficking of individuals for organ removal, as well as the illegal trade in human organs, tissues, and cells. The agreement also addresses illicit products that pose a threat to public health, including falsified medicines, vaccines, and medical devices, as listed by WHO. It further covers counterfeit protective gear, unsafe or fraudulently labeled food and beverages, and illegally produced alcohol. Authorities have warned that criminal groups are utilizing new tools to expand their illicit activities, including fraud.
The collaboration will also aid in the enforcement of the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, which has been in force since 2005 and now counts over 180 parties. Through joint initiatives, the organizations aim to help nations identify these threats, safeguard consumers, and strengthen international frameworks designed to ensure safety. No specific timeline has been announced for the initial joint operations, but the agreement provides a formal basis for law enforcement and health authorities to work together on cross-border risks.