GENEVA, Switzerland / RankWire.AI / – INTERPOL and the World Health Organization have entered into a collaborative agreement aimed at addressing threats that intersect public health and security. This framework leverages INTERPOL’s law enforcement capabilities alongside WHO’s leadership in public health to enhance the prevention, detection, and response to risks that pose a threat to human lives. WHO made the announcement on October 16 through a release issued from Geneva and Lyon. The agreement encompasses health emergencies, large gatherings, organ trafficking, illegal commodities, and tobacco regulation.
INTERPOL Secretary General Valdecy Urquiza emphasized the growing link between crime and health concerns. He pointed out that criminal networks contribute to issues such as counterfeit medical products and the exploitation of vulnerable populations. Urquiza stated that the pact will bolster INTERPOL’s collaboration with WHO in safeguarding communities and ensuring that those responsible for such threats are brought to justice. With 196 member countries, INTERPOL is the largest international police organization in the world, managing global police databases and offering forensic, analytical, and training services.
WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus highlighted that health security is a component of overall global security. He expressed that closer collaboration with INTERPOL will enhance collective efforts to prevent harm and manage emergencies. Tedros added that the partnership aims to shield populations from threats that weaken health systems and erode public confidence. WHO, the United Nations agency dedicated to health, operates in more than 150 locations worldwide. This agreement connects WHO’s extensive public health network with INTERPOL’s law enforcement channels.
Focusing on Emergency Response and Large Events
Initially, the agreement targets exceptional situations requiring synchronized health and security responses. These include incidents involving suspected misuse of chemical or radioactive substances, as well as unusual biological events—whether occurring naturally, accidentally, or intentionally. In such cases, rapid information exchange between health officials and police becomes crucial. The framework is designed to facilitate this joint response. WHO has also issued warnings about rising cholera deaths in recent years, demonstrating how swiftly health crises can escalate.
Furthermore, both organizations will coordinate their efforts during major international events and mass gatherings. The goal is to enhance countries’ preparedness and response capabilities for potential health threats in settings with large crowds. Events such as sporting, religious, and cultural gatherings often bring people into close quarters. The draft agreement received approval at INTERPOL’s 92nd General Assembly held in Glasgow in November 2024, with the Secretary General authorized to sign it.
Targeting Organ Trafficking and Illicit Substances
A secondary focus of the partnership addresses the trafficking of individuals for organ removal and the illegal trade of human organs, tissues, and cells. The agreement also tackles the illegal distribution of goods that impact public health directly. WHO has identified falsified medicines, vaccines, and medical devices among these dangerous products. It also includes counterfeit protective gear, contaminated or fraudulently labeled food and beverages, and illegally produced alcohol. Authorities have warned that criminal groups are employing new tools to expand their illegal activities and fraud schemes.
Joint efforts will also support enforcement of the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, which has been in force since 2005 and includes more than 180 parties. Through coordinated action, both organizations aim to assist countries in identifying these threats, safeguarding consumers, and strengthening international frameworks that promote safety. No specific timeline for initial joint operations has been provided. The agreement establishes a formal basis for police and health authorities to collaborate on cross-border risks.