Interpol, short for the International Criminal Police Organization, is a global law enforcement organization that facilitates international police cooperation and assists in the fight against crime. It was founded in 1923 and is headquartered in Lyon, France.
Interpol’s mission is to promote global police cooperation, support the sharing of information between law enforcement agencies, and facilitate the apprehension of criminals who operate across international borders. They work to combat a range of criminal activities, including terrorism, organized crime, cybercrime, and human trafficking.
Interpol operates a secure communications network that enables law enforcement agencies around the world to share information and intelligence in real time. They also provide a range of training and support services to police agencies, as well as technical assistance and forensic support.
In addition to their operational work, Interpol is also involved in the development of international law enforcement standards and practices. They work closely with national governments and other international organizations to develop policies and strategies to combat transnational crime.
Interpol is governed by an Executive Committee, which is responsible for overseeing the organization’s activities and strategic direction. They have over 190 member countries and maintain a presence in countries around the world through their National Central Bureaus, which serve as the primary point of contact between Interpol and national law enforcement agencies.