Why is Taiwan not part of INTERPOL and could this be about to change (Part 3)?

Taiwan’s long-standing exclusion from INTERPOL has once again returned to international focus – this time driven by newly reported legislative developments in the United States. Members of the US House of Representatives have proposed a bill that would require the Secretary of State to develop a clear strategy aimed at securing Taiwan’s participation in the global policing organisation. The move reflects growing recognition of Taiwan’s proven crime-fighting capabilities and highlights renewed geopolitical pressure to close information-sharing gaps that continue to hinder transnational criminal investigations.

Background

In December 2024, we published an article on why Taiwan is not part of INTERPOL and could this be about to change?

We noted that when China applied for membership in 1984, it attached conditions designed to prevent Taiwan becoming a member. Since that time, China has constantly cited political issues to ensure that Taiwan remains excluded from the INTERPOL system.

We also highlighted the growing degree of support for Taiwan’s inclusion in INTERPOL.  Advocates argue that Taiwan’s continued exclusion from INTERPOL creates a critical cap in the global effort to combat transnational crime. As a non-member, Taiwan is unable to engage in real time information-sharing which hampers its ability to assist in cross-border investigations.

We concluded that, in recent years, countries such as the United States, Japan and members of the European Union have pushed for Taiwan to be given access to INTERPOL mechanisms.

Earlier this month we provided a further update, noting an international call for all countries to support Taiwan’s bid to attend the INTERPOL General Assembly and to participate in INTERPOL’s meetings, mechanisms and activities.

What is the latest update?

It is now being reported that members of the US House of Representatives have proposed a bill requiring the US Secretary of State to develop a “strategic approach to secure Taiwan’s membership in the International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol)”.

The proposed “Taiwan Interpol Endorsement and Inclusion Act” reflects what lawmakers describe as a strategic necessity to include Taiwan in international crime-fighting efforts amid ongoing global threats.

The initiative is led by Congressman Lance Gooden, who has stated that Taiwan’s “proven” crime-fighting capabilities warrant full membership and that its inclusion would “fill a gap in the global security network and reinforce the effectiveness of international law enforcement cooperation”.

This will certainly be an interesting area to watch going forwards.

How Gherson can help

Gherson have extensive experience in providing legal assistance to corporates and individuals who may have, or suspect they may have, outstanding issues.

INTERPOL measures

In addition, those who suspect that they may be subject to INTERPOL measures, including a Red, Blue, Orange, Green, Purple, Special (INTERPOL – United Nations Security Council) or Yellow Notice, should take heed.

Gherson Solicitors continue to receive requests for expert advice and assistance from those who believe they may have outstanding financial issues which may involve INTERPOL. This advice tackles:

1. How best to approach a possible INTERPOL notice;
2. Preparing for potential criminal proceedings / an extradition request;
3. Preparing for a situation where a civil matter or commercial dispute could be used to initiate bogus criminal proceedings; and
4. Even exploring the possibility of instigating civil litigation proceedings to recover any misappropriated assets.

Gherson have previously written a series of blogs designed to assist those who may suspect that they may be subject to INTERPOL measures (including a Blue and a Red Notice):

• What is INTERPOL’s Silver Notice?
• INTERPOL UPDATE – India charges 8 people in first Interpol Silver Notice Case
• What is an INTERPOL Yellow Notice?
• What is an INTERPOL-United Nations Security Council Special Notice?
• What is an INTERPOL Purple Notice?
• What is an INTERPOL Green Notice and can it be challenged?
• What is an INTERPOL Orange Notice and can it be challenged?
• What is the purpose of an INTERPOL Blue Notice, and can it be challenged?
• What is an INTERPOL Blue Notice?
• INTERPOL and Red Notice Challenges
• How to Remove an INTERPOL Red Notice
• INTERPOL Red Notices and Extradition
• How do I know if I am subject to an INTERPOL Red Notice?

Gherson have over 36 years of experience in assisting with all aspects of INTERPOL, Red Notice challenges and extradition. We have unparalleled expertise in managing asylum and extradition requests in tandem. If you would like to speak to us in respect of any of the issues raised in this blog or about your specific circumstances,  do not hesitate to contact us for advice, send us an e-mail, or alternatively, follow us on X, Facebook, or LinkedIn to stay-up-to-date.

The information in this blog is for general information purposes only and does not purport to be comprehensive or to provide legal advice.  Whilst every effort is made to ensure the information and law is current as of the date of publication it should be stressed that, due to the passage of time, this does not necessarily reflect the present legal position.  Gherson accepts no responsibility for loss which may arise from accessing or reliance on information contained in this blog.  For formal advice on the current law please do not hesitate to contact Gherson.  Legal advice is only provided pursuant to a written agreement, identified as such, and signed by the client and by or on behalf of Gherson.

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