Today, terrorism takes many forms and impacts an increasingly diverse range of targets. Alongside highly organized groups that have been active for decades, the world is facing more recent threats from fragmented and diffuse forms of terrorism that increasingly use technology to cause fear and disruption.
Along with our colleagues in member countries, our specialist counter-terrorism teams track and analyze how these malicious networks evolve. They work together to stop terrorists crossing borders on land and at sea, monitor changing hotspots and ensure law enforcement agencies are prepared for the threats posed by chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear and explosive (CBRNE) materials.
This issue of INTERPOL Spotlight takes an in-depth look at one of the most pressing challenges posed by terrorism today: youth radicalization. It highlights how our expert analysts are identifying emerging trends and providing early warnings to help inform and strengthen global responses.
It also showcases how our specialist training on preventing CBRNE terrorism becomes concrete action on the ground, and how we work to stop bad actors from disrupting trade and other lawful activity at sea. Our newsletter also introduces our new Director of Counter-Terrorism, María Carmen Muñoz González.
In a world where conflict, radicalization and violence are increasingly widespread, INTERPOL’s strengths as a neutral, global and trusted organization are as unique as they are essential. They place us at the heart of multilateral cooperation and at the forefront of a coordinated and determined global fight against both terrorism and transnational organized crime.
Valdecy Urquiza
Secretary General, INTERPOL