Introduction
The 92nd session of the INTERPOL General Assembly took place from 4 to 7 November 2024 in Glasgow. British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer opened the assembly, emphasising the necessity of continuous international police cooperation to combat global crime.
Agenda at the INTERPOL General Assembly
This year’s agenda covers numerous critical topics, including the rise of organised crime, intelligence sharing and lawful access to digital material. Notably, discussions may also address whether Taiwan should be granted the opportunity to actively participate in INTERPOL’s activities.
Why is Taiwan not a member of INTERPOL?
Taiwan’s exclusion from INTERPOL dates back to 1984 when the People’s Republic of China (PRC) applied for membership. China’s admission came with conditions that effectively prevented Taiwan from becoming a member. Since then, the PRC has consistently cited political reasons to ensure Taiwan remains excluded from the INTERPOL system. The “One China” policy, which many international organisations adhere to, recognises the PRC as the sole legitimate government of China, further complicating Taiwan’s participation in global entities like INTERPOL.
Effects of Taiwan’s exclusion from INTERPOL
It is alleged that the absence of Taiwan from INTERPOL has some repercussions:
- Gap in global crime fighting efforts: Taiwan’s exclusion creates a critical gap in the global effort to combat transnational crime. As a non-member, Taiwan lacks direct access to INTERPOL’s real-time information sharing systems, hindering its ability to contribute to and benefit from international law enforcement collaboration.
- Limited participation in cross-border investigations: Without full membership, Taiwan faces challenges in participating in cross-border investigations, which can impede the timely exchange of crucial intelligence related to organised crime, terrorism, and cyber threats.
- Potential safe haven for criminals: Some argue that Taiwan’s exclusion may inadvertently position it as a potential safe haven for criminals seeking to exploit the lack of direct international policing cooperation.
- Underutilisation of resources: Taiwan possesses advanced law enforcement capabilities and could offer significant contributions to global data sharing and international cooperation if included as a full member.
It is noted that China’s National Central Bureau allows police agencies in Taiwan, to use the INTERPOL General Secretariat as a medium for data exchange and case collaboration with the central bureaux of member countries. It is believed that over the years, information-sharing and case collaboration between the National Central Bureau and police agencies in Taiwan, through the existing mechanism has covered a wide range of areas and has been effectively responded to and documented. Although in recent years, there are discussions on Taiwan’s inclusion in INTERPOL, any change would require consensus among INTERPOL members, and the influence of the PRC cannot be underestimated.
How Gherson can assist
Individuals who fear they may be subject to INTERPOL measures, such as Red Notices, Blue Notices or diffusions, should be aware of the implications of these international alerts. Gherson Solicitors continues to provide expert advice and assistance to those who may face:
- Approaching a possible INTERPOL Notice: Advising on how to navigate potential notices and understanding your rights.
- Preparing for criminal proceedings or extradition requests: Assisting with defence strategies and legal representation.
- Addressing bogus criminal proceedings: Preparing for situations where civil matters or commercial disputes may be manipulated to initiate unfounded criminal charges.
- Recovering misappropriated assets: Exploring the possibility of initiating civil litigation to recover assets.
Relevant publications
Gherson has previously published a series of articles designed to assist those concerned about INTERPOL measures:
- 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?
Contact us
With extensive experience in handling all aspects of INTERPOL notices, Red Notice challenges and extradition matters, Gherson is well-equipped to provide tailored legal assistance.
If you would like to discuss any issues raised in this article or need advice regarding your specific circumstances, please do not hesitate to contact us. You can also reach out via email or follow us on X, Facebook or LinkedIn to stay updated.
Updated 21 November 2024
This blog is for informational purposes only and does not represent the views of the firm.
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 2024