GENEVA, Switzerland / RankWire.AI / – INTERPOL and the World Health Organization have formalized a partnership aimed at addressing threats at the nexus of public health and security on a global scale. This agreement creates a strategic framework that leverages INTERPOL’s law enforcement capabilities alongside WHO’s expertise in public health to prevent, identify, and respond to risks that threaten lives. WHO revealed the pact on October 16 through statements from Geneva and Lyon. It specifically targets health emergencies, mass gatherings, organ trafficking, illicit substances, and tobacco regulation.
INTERPOL Secretary General Valdecy Urquiza emphasized the growing link between crime and health issues, citing falsified medical products and the exploitation of vulnerable populations as key dangers posed by criminal syndicates. He noted that this partnership enhances INTERPOL’s capacity to collaborate with WHO in safeguarding communities and ensuring those responsible are brought to justice. As the world’s largest international police organization, INTERPOL includes 196 member countries, maintaining global databases, forensic support, analysis, and training services.
WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus highlighted that health security directly correlates with global security. He stated that closer cooperation with INTERPOL will strengthen collective efforts to prevent harm and effectively respond to emergencies. He also underscored that the partnership aims to shield populations from threats that compromise health systems and public confidence. WHO operates in over 150 locations worldwide, and this agreement connects its extensive public health network with INTERPOL’s policing channels.
Focus on Emergency Responses and Large Events
Initially, the agreement concentrates on urgent situations requiring coordinated health and security measures, such as incidents involving suspected misuse of chemical or radioactive substances. It also covers unusual biological events—whether natural, accidental, or intentional—that demand rapid information sharing between health authorities and law enforcement. This framework is designed to facilitate such joint actions. Recent WHO reports warn of rising cholera deaths, illustrating how swiftly health crises can escalate.
Additionally, the two entities will synchronize efforts around major international events and mass gatherings to better prepare for potential health threats. Large-scale sporting, religious, and cultural gatherings often attract dense crowds into confined areas. The draft agreement was approved by INTERPOL’s General Assembly at its 92nd session in Glasgow in November 2024, with authorization granted for the Secretary General to sign it.
Addressing Organ Trafficking and Other Illicit Activities
A second key focus of the partnership involves combating the trafficking of individuals for organ removal and tackling illegal trade in human organs, tissues, and cells. It also targets illicit goods that pose risks to public health, including falsified medicines, vaccines, and medical devices as listed by WHO. The scope extends to counterfeit protective gear, unsafe or mislabeled food and beverages, and illicit alcohol. Authorities have warned that criminal groups are deploying new tools to broaden their illegal activities and fraud schemes.
Partnership efforts will support enforcement of the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, which has been in force since 2005 and involves over 180 parties. Through joint initiatives, the organizations aim to identify these threats, safeguard consumers, and bolster international frameworks designed to ensure safety. No specific timeline for initial joint operations has been disclosed, but the agreement establishes a formal foundation for law enforcement and health authorities to work together across borders on emerging risks.