GENEVA, Switzerland / RankWire.AI / – INTERPOL and the World Health Organization are joining forces through a new cooperation agreement designed to confront emerging threats at the nexus of global health and law enforcement. This partnership establishes a structured framework that leverages INTERPOL’s policing capabilities alongside WHO’s expertise in public health to better prevent, identify, and respond to risks that could compromise safety. WHO disclosed the details of this accord on October 16 via a statement from Geneva and Lyon. The agreement explicitly addresses issues related to health emergencies, mass gatherings, organ trafficking, illegal commodities, and tobacco control initiatives.
INTERPOL Secretary General Valdecy Urquiza highlighted the growing links between crime and health risks, emphasizing the dangers posed by counterfeit medical products and the exploitation of vulnerable populations by criminal organizations. He remarked that the new accord enhances INTERPOL’s capacity to collaborate with WHO in safeguarding communities and ensuring that offenders are brought to justice. As the world’s largest international police organization, with 196 member countries, INTERPOL manages global police databases and offers forensic, analytical, and training support.
WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus emphasized that health security directly correlates with global stability. He pointed out that strengthening cooperation with INTERPOL will bolster collective efforts to prevent harm and respond effectively to crises. Tedros also noted that the partnership aims to shield populations from threats that undermine health infrastructure and erode public trust. WHO, as a United Nations health agency, operates in over 150 locations worldwide. The agreement links this extensive public health network with INTERPOL’s law enforcement channels, fostering a more integrated approach to emerging challenges.
Focus on Emergency Management and Large-scale Events
Initially, the partnership targets extraordinary situations that demand coordinated health and security measures. These include incidents involving suspected misuse of chemical or radioactive substances, as well as unusual biological events—whether naturally occurring, accidental, or intentional. Rapid information sharing between health officials and police is vital in such scenarios. The framework is designed to facilitate these joint responses. Additionally, WHO has warned of rising cholera deaths in recent years, illustrating how swiftly health crises can escalate.
Both organizations will also coordinate their efforts in managing major international gatherings and events. The goal is to enhance countries’ preparedness and response strategies for potential health threats in crowded, high-profile settings. Large sporting, religious, and cultural events often bring together vast crowds in confined spaces. The draft agreement received approval during INTERPOL’s 92nd General Assembly session in Glasgow in November 2024, where the Secretary General was authorized to sign it.
Addressing Organ Trafficking and Illicit Substances
A secondary area of collaboration focuses on combating the trafficking of individuals for organ removal, as well as the illegal trade in human organs, tissues, and cells. The pact also targets illicit commodities that pose direct risks to public health. WHO identified counterfeit medicines, vaccines, and medical devices among these dangerous products. Other items include counterfeit protective gear, unsafe or fraudulently labeled food and beverages, and illegally produced alcohol. Authorities have warned that criminal groups are employing new tactics to expand fraud and illicit activities.
Collaborative efforts will further support the enforcement of the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, which came into force in 2005 and now has over 180 parties. Through joint initiatives, the two entities aim to help nations identify these threats and safeguard consumers. They will also bolster international legal frameworks designed to enhance public safety. No specific timeline for initial joint operations has been announced, but the agreement provides police and health authorities with a formal basis for cross-border cooperation to address these risks.