Module 9: Interpol - The International Criminal Police Organization

Introduction to Interpol

• Interpol is the International Criminal Police Organization.
• Founded in the 1920s.
• Headquarters located in Lyon, France.
• Viewed as mysterious by many.

U.S. Relationship with Interpol

• Historically ambivalent relationship.
  • Edgar Hoover, former head of the FBI, was reluctant to engage with Interpol.
• Recent years show increased U.S. involvement.
  • A U.S. national served as Secretary General in the 1990s.

Structure and Operation of Interpol

• Constitution: Governing framework of Interpol.
• Legislative framework: Guides U.S. government interactions with Interpol.
• Staffing:
  • Permanent staff and seconded personnel from member countries.

National Central Bureaus (NCB)

• Each Interpol member country has an NCB.
• The U.S. has a National Central Bureau that regularly interacts with Interpol.

Functions and Notices

• Interpol issues various types of notices:
  • Red Notice: Alerts when an indicted individual crosses borders.
  • Yellow Notice: For missing persons.
• Border officials use Interpol database for passport checks.
  • Red Notice can lead to arrest and extradition.

Interpol's Initiatives and Divisions

• Focuses on international white-collar crime:
  • Counterfeited intellectual property.
  • Stolen vehicles and aircraft.
  • Corruption.
  • Wildlife trafficking.

Interaction with Businesses and Civil Society

• Businesses can network with Interpol to prevent/solve crimes.
• Civil society groups, like environmental organizations, collaborate with Interpol on issues such as poaching.

Conclusion

• Module 9 provides insight into Interpol's workings and partnerships.
• Highlights the importance of cooperation in combating international crime and supporting civil society efforts.