SUPPORT TAIWAN’S PARTICIPATION IN INTERPOL

 Sir,

Timely intelligence sharing is essential in the fight against transnational crime. Taiwan possesses robust law enforcement capabilities and collaborates effectively with partners in criminal investigations. However, Taiwan’s exclusion from the International Criminal Police Organisation (INTERPOL) restricts its access to critical intelligence, forcing it to rely on indirect channels that often deliver outdated information. This gap hampers effective responses to transnational crime and exacerbates societal harm.INTERPOL promotes international cooperation in law enforcement, as outlined in Article 2 of its Constitution, which aims to ensure mutual assistance among criminal police authorities.

Transformed

The rapid advancement of technology has transformed transnational crime into an organised, cross-border challenge, leaving all countries and their citizens at risk. Effective countermeasures rely on nations working together and sharing information and principles that align with INTERPOL’s mission. INTERPOL President Ahmed Naser Al-Raisi emphasised the importance of intelligence sharing on September 7 during International Police Cooperation Day, stating that ‘by openly sharing intelligence, strategies and resources, we are better equipped to confront global threats like transnational crime, human trafficking, and terrorism.’

While individual criminal cases might not have a worldwide impact, they can yield insights into broader crime trends, paving the way for cooperative solutions. This year’s theme for international police cooperation is: ‘police integrity, accountability and oversight,’ values that are crucial for effective law enforcement and global security. These principles build public trust, essential for preventing crime and protecting vulnerable populations. Taiwan, strategically positioned and committed to enhancing international ties, is eager to collaborate with other nations to foster a more peaceful, secure and prosperous future. Taiwan’s public safety is recognised globally.The island operates its own policing and justice systems, alongside comprehensive financial, trading, aviation, maritime and border control systems.

Experience

With substantial experience combating transnational crime, including telecommunications fraud, drug trafficking, cyberattacks, organised crime and terrorism, Taiwan’s law enforcement has demonstrated a commitment to peace and assistance for vulnerable communities. Its trained officers have earned Taiwan recognition as a key partner in international crime-fighting efforts. As global security is interconnected, cooperation between Taiwan and INTERPOL would significantly enhance the fight against transnational crime, ultimately contributing to a safer world. The American Chamber of Commerce in Taiwan’s 2024 Business Climate Survey highlighted personal safety as the top attraction for foreign professionals, while Taiwan ranks as the fourth safest country in the world, according to the Numbeo safety index. In 2023, InterNations also ranked Taiwan as the fifth most livable country, affirming its commitment to quality of life and safety.

Without Taiwan, the International Security Network Remains Incomplete
Without Taiwan, the international security network is fundamentally incomplete. Taiwanese passports, which provide visa-free entry to over 160 countries and regions, have unfortunately become targets for illegal trade by crime syndicates worldwide. Criminal groups have fraudulently utilised Taiwanese passports to engage in various illegal activities, posing significant threats to international security and disrupting the global order.

Exclusion

Taiwan’s exclusion from INTERPOL severely hampers its ability to access timely crime intelligence and share critical information on major criminal suspects involved in fraud, drug trafficking and other illicit activities. This situation prevents Taiwan from informing other countries about emerging criminal methods and sharing its experiences in investigating related crimes, including issues surrounding forged passports. Taiwan’s absence from international law enforcement networks undermines efforts to prevent and address criminal activities at their source.

Despite this, Taiwan is willing and able to collaborate on joint law enforcement initiatives. A notable case occurred in 2017, when Australian national Lisa Lines, allegedly convinced an accomplice to attack her ex-husband, resulting in severe injuries. Lines fled to Taiwan, where she remained until INTERPOL issued a red notice for her arrest in September 2022.
Unfortunately, Taiwan was not informed of this notice until October 2023, when Australia reached out for assistance. Following the request, Taiwan swiftly initiated an investigation, notifying both Australia and Palau, which ultimately led to Lines’ arrest when she travelled there with her children. She was extradited to Australia, while her children were returned safely. In 2024, the INTERPOL Stop Internet Piracy (I-SOP) initiative addressed copyright violations, leading to a report on illegal broadcasting during the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

Acknowledged

This report acknowledged a Taiwanese police investigation into the illegal use of the Unblock Tech TV box for broadcasting events. INTERPOL subsequently sought Taiwan’s insights and strategies to combat digital piracy. On June 27, the Australian Strategic Policy Institute published an article by Dr John Coyne, asserting that ‘Taiwan’s Exclusion from INTERPOL is the world’s loss. The article emphasised Taiwan’s significant law enforcement capabilities and its vital role in combating transnational crime, particularly human trafficking.

Despite strong international support, Taiwan remains barred from accessing INTERPOL’s intelligence databases, limiting its effectiveness in cross-border crime investigations. Granting Taiwan observer status at INTERPOL would enhance global security, uphold justice and mitigate the negative impact of political factors on crime-fighting efforts. We urge all countries to support Taiwan’s participation as an observer at INTERPOL’s annual assembly. This engagement would enable Taiwan’s law enforcement agencies to collaborate with member states, attend training sessions and share expertise. Taiwan is committed to promoting security, reducing harm to individuals and property and tirelessly working with the international community to combat transnational crime.

Commissioner Chou Yew-woei
Criminal Investigation Bureau
Republic of China (Taiwan)

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