The Syrian government is making a concerted effort to reintegrate into global security frameworks and become a more active participant in INTERPOL. This reflects a strategic priority for Damascus to leverage international channels in its fight against cross-border crime.
Major General Abdulqadir Tahhan, Syria’s Assistant Minister of Interior for Security Affairs, met with INTERPOL President Major General Ahmad Naser al-Raisi during the 93rd INTERPOL General Assembly in Marrakech. Their discussions focused on “enhancing cooperation in security and policing domains,” marking a tangible shift from years of isolation toward full engagement with the world’s foremost police cooperation network.
While Syria has been a member of INTERPOL since 1953, corrective measures were imposed on the National Central Bureau (NCB) in Damascus in December of 2012 concerning its use of the INTERPOL Information System. In June 2021, the Executive Committee decided to lift these measures, with implementation completed in October 2021 following additional training for NCB Damascus staff.
A Multi-Pronged Strategy for Cooperation
Through deeper involvement with INTERPOL, Syria aims to gain improved access to global intelligence and databases essential for identifying and tracking criminal networks, combating organized crime, countering terrorism, and addressing emerging threats such as cybercrime.
Discussions highlighted the development of training programs for Syrian Interior Ministry personnel to build capacities and strengthen operational efficiency. Syria also expressed interest in utilizing INTERPOL’s specialized technical tools, including the I-24/7 secure global police communications system and its extensive databases of stolen travel documents and criminal intelligence, resources that could significantly enhance its ability to monitor and intercept criminal activity.
A Broader Global Security Context
The General Assembly is examining mechanisms to bolster international cooperation in combating organized crime and terrorism, while also advancing systems for information exchange and technical expertise between police forces worldwide.
The conference offers an opportunity to strengthen multilateral partnerships and support international security and peace efforts through modernized coordination mechanisms. Each year, the Assembly reviews major trends in global crime and security.
This session focused on identifying and dismantling transnational organized crime networks, countering cross-border fraud centers, enhancing INTERPOL’s global policing capabilities, and promoting the role of women in policing.
