Weaponizing Interpol

Interpol, the world's leading police-cooperation body, aims to "connect police for a safer world." Although the organization's constitution states that Interpol cannot engage in "any intervention or activities of a political, military, religious or racial character," it is increasingly being subverted by autocratic regimes seeking to pursue their exiled political opponents. The number of Red Notices (a type of arrest request issued through Interpol) has increased tenfold in the past fifteen years. Those targeted face the risk of arrest if they travel across borders; have difficulties obtaining visas and open bank accounts; and suffer reputational damage. Interpol remains opaque and lacks accountability for its actions. Recent reforms have started to address some of these issues. But more needs to be done to prevent the hijacking, repurposing, and weaponizing of Interpol by today's globalized authoritarian regimes.