Public security - Police

What is Europol?

It is the EU organisation that will affect the police force most directly. Based in The Hague, it was set up by the EU to deal with law enforcement, particularly regarding organised crime. It operates in a similar manner to Interpol, which Malta already forms part of, and which is also based on the principle of "crime knows no borders".

Both Europol's and Interpol's objectives have recently been updated to take into account the September 11 attacks. Now, more than ever, there is a stronger emphasis on the need to secure a zone of security and justice within the EU. Europol's responsibilities now deals with a wide range of issues where two or more EU member states are affected.

These include illegal trafficking in drugs, in stolen vehicles and in human beings, sexual exploitation of women and children, pornography, forgery, terrorism, money laundering and counterfeiting of the euro. Europol supports member states through the exchange of information, by providing operational analysis, reports, crime analysis, expertise and technical support. Malta will be able to participate fully in Europol upon accession.