Comienza en Glasgow la 92ª Asamblea General de Interpol

Today, 4th November 2024, Interpol’s 92nd General Assembly kicks off in Glasgow. This year’s assembly arrives at a critical juncture for the organisation, with mounting pressure to address fundamental challenges while maintaining Interpol’s essential role in global law enforcement cooperation.

Red Notice Monitor, in collaboration with Hong Kong Watch and the Chinese Democratic Party, will host a pivotal side event tomorrow. The discussion will focus on two crucial matters: Interpol’s future trajectory and the concerning issue of Chinese interference, particularly regarding transnational repression through the organisation’s mechanisms to target dissidents and perceived enemies of the Chinese state.

The most significant announcement thus far is the leadership transition, the confirmation of Brazil’s Valdecy Urquiza as Interpol’s new Secretary General, succeeding Jürgen Stock, who has served since November 2014. This transition in administrative leadership comes at a time when Interpol faces increasingly calls for reform, particularly regarding the Red Notice system and human rights protections. Mr Urquiza faces substantial challenges ahead, inheriting an organisation that has become increasingly politicised. His primary task will be addressing long-standing issues, particularly the misuse of Red Notices and the growing influence of authoritarian states.

Executive Committee elections also feature prominently in this year’s assembly. The Committee, serving as Interpol’s governing body, will see new representatives chosen from various global regions. Whilst there are several distinguished candidates, the election has become a demonstration of soft power diplomacy. The presence of candidates from Russia, China, and Iran raises serious concerns about Interpol’s commitment to international law compliance.

Another cornerstone of this year’s agenda is the presentation of the Commission for the Control of Files’ (CCF) annual report. As Interpol’s independent data protection body, the CCF’s role has become increasingly critical amidst growing concerns about the Red Notice system and the need for enhanced transparency. We anticipate this document will provide crucial insights into their progress in reviewing Red Notices and their alignment with Interpol’s regulations. Of particular interest will be their assessment of the challenges posed by their substantial caseload.

A significant resolution will be put to vote regarding the potential extension of the current Interpol President’s term. Major General Al-Raisi of the UAE currently holds this position, and the Assembly will decide whether to permit an additional term.

The success of any reforms will largely depend on the engagement of key member countries, particularly major funders such as the EU, US, Canada, and the UK, whose political and economic influence could drive meaningful change within the organisation. As delegates from all 196 member countries convene in Glasgow, the international community watches closely, hoping for substantive reforms that address current weaknesses while reinforcing Interpol’s commitment to justice and human rights in an increasingly complex world.

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