The cooperation framework combines INTERPOL’s law-enforcement capabilities with the WHO’s public-health expertise to help countries prevent, detect and respond to cross-border threats. “Crime and health are increasingly interconnected,” INTERPOL Secretary-General Valdecy Urquiza said.
“From falsified medical products to the exploitation of vulnerable individuals, criminal networks are putting lives at risk.”
INTERPOL and the WHO will coordinate responses to exceptional incidents involving the suspected misuse of chemical or radioactive materials.
The agreement also covers unusual biological events, whether naturally occurring, accidental or deliberate.
Cooperation will extend to major international events and mass gatherings, where large numbers of people and heightened security risks can place additional pressure on health systems.
The organisations will support countries in preparing for and responding to possible health threats during those events. “Health security is global security,” WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said.
“By deepening our collaboration with INTERPOL, we are reinforcing our collective ability to prevent harm, respond to emergencies and protect people from threats that undermine both health systems and public trust.”
Another priority is combating human trafficking for organ removal and the illegal trade in human organs, tissues and cells.
The agreement also targets the production and sale of falsified medicines, vaccines and medical devices.
Counterfeit personal protective equipment, fraudulently labelled or unsafe food and beverages and illegally produced alcohol will also fall within the cooperation framework.
INTERPOL and WHO will help national authorities identify illegal products, protect consumers and strengthen enforcement of international health and criminal-justice frameworks.
The organisations will further support implementation of the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control. “This agreement strengthens our ability to work with the WHO to protect communities and ensure that those who threaten them are brought to justice,” Urquiza said.
–WHO/CHannelAfrica–
