Taiwan’s Exclusion from Interpol: A Global Security Issue

 Politicking by the Chinese Communist Party

Since 1984, political maneuvering by the Chinese Communist Party has blocked Taiwan's membership in Interpol, preventing the timely sharing of crucial criminal information and intelligence. This exclusion weakens global security and benefits organized crime.

The Insufficiency of Political Placation
Placating the CCP is an insufficient reason for excluding Taiwan from Interpol. To enhance global security, Taiwan should be granted observer status at Interpol’s 92nd General Assembly in Glasgow in November 2024. This status would allow Taiwan to cooperate with Interpol and better combat transnational crime.

Taiwan: A Crucial Law Enforcement Stakeholder
Taiwan plays a vital role in law enforcement within the Asia-Pacific region, possessing critical intelligence and operational capabilities. The National Police Agency (NPA) of Taiwan is renowned for its professionalism and advanced expertise. Internationally, the NPA is actively involved in efforts against terrorism, cybercrime, human trafficking, and drug smuggling, contributing to Taiwan's low crime rates.

Challenges Faced by Taiwanese Nationals
Despite its successes, Taiwanese nationals are still victims of crime both domestically and abroad, and some are involved in transnational organized crime. The NPA’s absence from Interpol restricts the region’s ability to effectively combat such activities.

Human Rights and Humanitarian Concerns
Taiwan’s exclusion from Interpol raises significant human rights and humanitarian issues. Victims of transnational crimes, including human trafficking and terrorism, suffer regardless of geopolitical boundaries. Including Taiwan in Interpol would enhance protection for these victims and strengthen international efforts to prevent and prosecute crimes against humanity. Exclusion allows transnational crime networks to exploit gaps in international cooperation.

A Call for Fairness and Justice
Taiwan’s exclusion from Interpol is a glaring omission. Granting it observer status would uphold principles of fairness and justice, and meaningfully enhance global security cooperation. Setting aside political considerations to focus on de-politicizing the fight against transnational crime is essential for advancing shared goals of security, justice, and human rights worldwide.