Why is Taiwan not part of INTERPOL, and could this change (Part 2)?

Taiwan’s long-standing exclusion from INTERPOL remains a significant point of debate in global policing. Whilst political barriers persist, international backing for Taiwan’s participation has strengthened, with commentators and governments highlighting the risks posed by keeping a capable law-enforcement partner outside of the system. Recent commentary once again underlines how this gap affects real-time information sharing, coordinated investigations and broader efforts to combat transnational crime.

In this update, we explore the renewed momentum behind Taiwan’s bid for a meaningful engagement with INTERPOL, and why this issue continues to attract international attention.

Background

Back in December 2024, we wrote an article on why it was that Taiwan was outside of the system and assessed whether this position would be maintained (see Why is Taiwan not part of INTERPOL, and could this change?).

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

However, we observed that increasing support was being voiced for Taiwan to be given access to the INTERPOL system. Supporters argue that Taiwan’s continued exclusion from INTERPOL presents a critical cap in the global efforts to combat transnational crime. As an outsider, Taiwan is unable to engage in real-time information sharing, which hampers its ability to assist in cross-border investigations.

We have concluded that in recent years, countries such as the United States, Japan and members of the European Union have been pushing for Taiwan to be accepted as an INTERPOL member.

Is there still a drive for Taiwan to be accepted?

In a word – yes.

Recent publications have argued that Taiwan is an important and capable partner in the Indo-Pacific region, see for example the view published in the 12 November 2025 Jerusalem Post article “Countries should support Taiwan’s bid to participate as INTERPOL GA observer – opinion” (which also referenced another article dated 5 September 2025 entitled “Taiwan’s INTERPOL Exclusion Undermines Global Policing Efforts” by Dr. John Coyne of Australian Strategic Global Police Efforts).

This has been followed by an urge for all countries to support Taiwan’s bid to participate in the INTEPROL General Assembly and to engage meaningfully in INTEPOL’s meetings, mechanisms and activities.

Support for this argument is underpinned by the combination of accelerating developments in transnational crime, meaning that criminals can swiftly move assets across borders, Taiwan’s low crime rate and the country’s track record of successfully combating telecom fraud, drug trafficking and other cross-border crimes.

Further, it is argued that Taiwan nevertheless remains hampered in these efforts by its inability to share urgent information and join real-time coordinated efforts due to being outside of the INTERPOL system.

This situation can lead not only to loss of evidence, failure to apprehend suspects and harm to victims but also undermine global law enforcement efforts in general.

We will continue tracking developments in this undoubtedly interesting area of global police cooperation.

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

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 have outstanding financial issues which may involve INTERPOL. Our 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.
4. 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 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.

©Gherson 2025