INTERPOL Institution Its Jurisdiction and Functions

INTERPOL Institution Its Jurisdiction and Functions

INTERPOL is an international institution that plays one of the most important roles in global security and law enforcement. This organization, commonly known as the International Criminal Police Organization or the International Police, operates within a defined legal framework and exercises specific international competencies subject to established rules and conditions. INTERPOL was founded in Austria in 1923 and serves as a central mechanism for cooperation among member states to combat international crime and maintain public security.

In practice, INTERPOL maintains continuous cooperation with its member countries and plays a significant role in enhancing international security. The organization is directly involved in criminal matters and focuses primarily on identifying, tracking, and preventing transnational criminal activities. With access to advanced security infrastructure and decades of operational experience, INTERPOL has established itself as a key global institution in combating international crime.

When individuals commit criminal offenses and flee their home countries, INTERPOL facilitates their identification, pursuit, and extradition upon the request of the competent national authorities. Over recent years, close cooperation has existed between Iranian consular authorities and INTERPOL, resulting in the return of numerous Iranian nationals with criminal records to the country. INTERPOL performs its duties effectively within its jurisdiction and has achieved notable success in combating transnational criminal activity.

Role of Member States and Iran’s Cooperation with INTERPOL

History of INTERPOL

The initial proposal to establish INTERPOL was approved at an international congress held in France in 1914, attended by judges, senior police officials, and prominent legal scholars. Shortly thereafter, the outbreak of World War I suspended implementation of the plan. Ultimately, the organization was officially established in 1923 in Vienna.

Following its establishment, World War II led to the suspension of INTERPOL’s activities. The war led to increased crime and the disruption of public order worldwide. Consequently, INTERPOL’s constitution and regulations were formally adopted in 1956 during a conference held in Brussels. The organization’s headquarters remains in Vienna.

Functions and Jurisdiction of INTERPOL

The International Criminal Police Organization was established to promote public security and maintain order within the international community. INTERPOL operates within the framework of international law and is authorized to address matters of an international nature. Its primary areas of focus include public security, organized crime, terrorism, money laundering, war crimes, arms trafficking, cybercrime, and drug trafficking.

Key Points Regarding INTERPOL’s Jurisdiction and Responsibilities

One of INTERPOL’s principal duties is the international pursuit of fugitives. When offenders evade justice by fleeing to other countries, INTERPOL facilitates their tracking and, upon request by the competent state, assists in investigation and extradition procedures. INTERPOL provides services exclusively to its member states, and non-member countries are not entitled to direct cooperation with the organization.

Another major responsibility of INTERPOL is coordinating global policing activities. The organization enables law enforcement authorities to conduct cross-border investigations and pursue criminals internationally. The existence of INTERPOL contributes significantly to maintaining an acceptable level of global security.

INTERPOL also plays a vital role in combating drug-related crimes and is authorized to pursue individuals involved in narcotics trafficking.

Additional responsibilities include:

• Coordination and cooperation with the judicial authorities of member states.
• Locating missing persons at the international level.
• Identification and tracking of wanted individuals.
• Providing a secure global communication network for police forces worldwide.
• Collecting and sharing operational and intelligence information among member states.
• Delivering specialized training in the security and law enforcement fields.

Organizational Structure of INTERPOL

INTERPOL operates through a comprehensive institutional structure consisting of several bodies:

• General Assembly: The General Assembly convenes annually in one of the member states to review organizational matters and adopt key decisions.
• Executive Committee: This committee consists of the president, vice presidents, and an observer member. Its primary responsibility is to plan and oversee INTERPOL’s budget and expenditures.
• General Secretariat: The General Secretariat is a permanent body responsible for implementing decisions adopted by the General Assembly and the Executive Committee. It also plays a central role in identifying and disseminating information on major international crimes.
• National Central Bureau: Each member country maintains a National Central Bureau to ensure continuous coordination with INTERPOL. These offices are responsible for identifying fugitives, verifying identities, tracking suspects, and facilitating extradition.
• Advisory Body: Every three years, the Executive Committee selects distinguished scholars and experts from various disciplines to serve as advisors.
• Commission for the Control of INTERPOL’s Files: This commission is responsible for reviewing case files maintained by INTERPOL and for providing legal and operational guidance on security activities.

Frequently Asked Questions Regarding INTERPOL