Fighting Global Crime: Interpol facilitates international police cooperation

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These days, crime is not limited by geographical borders. But one organization is determined for police around the world to work together. The International Police Organization, more commonly known as Interpol, will hold its general assembly on September 26 in Beijing. Ahead of the meeting, we take a look at how the organization developed over the years, and its cooperation with China.

The world today is not at peace. It faces many threats, among them that from crime. Rampant terrorism is a global issue. Cyber-crime is causing increasing concern. Transnational organized crime and new types of crime are posing a more serious problem.

Combating crime, safeguarding the rule of law and restoring peace. All this requires police forces around the world to work together. INTERPOL is the world's police organization. It facilitates police forces in 190 countries in supporting one another and cooperating in the fight against crime.

It's a vast network connecting police organizations all over the world. It's a formidable force that strikes fear in criminals. It's a source of hope for people praying for peace and security. It shines the light of justice for the world's children to see. For a safer world.

INTERPOL is strict about maintaining neutrality. The Organization's Constitution prohibits 'any intervention or activities of a political, military, religious or racial character'. Its professionalism, teamwork and law observance have gained recognition and respect from governments and police forces around the world.

INTERPOL today is standing in the vanguard in the fight against international crime. That police intelligence should reach a border faster than criminals is a target INTERPOL has set itself. Twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, it remains on the alert, constantly monitoring criminal activity via its encrypted communications system, seven colour-coded warning bulletins, and 16 global crime databases.

As the most influential and effective multinational law enforcement agency, INTERPOL plays a vital role in combating transnational crime. In 2016, in 28 special operations it captured more than 3000 criminal suspects.

Over the past hundred years, INTERPOL has experienced an extraordinary journey. In 1984, China's legal status in INTERPOL is restored. In 1995, China hosts the 64th INTERPOL general assembly. In 2016, at the 85th general assembly, Chinese Vice Minister of Public Security, Meng Hongwei, is elected President of INTERPOL.

Today, INTERPOL is confronting new threats. With a view to tackling these and facing future challenges, it's building an even stronger police cooperation mechanism.

On September 26, 2017, the 86th INTERPOL General Assembly will convene in Beijing. It will address the key law enforcement issues of our times. By embracing the century-old dream of international police cooperation and facing up to the future challenges, the assembly will be a milestone in working "For a safer world".