HomeInterpol Non-Member Countries List
Interpol is the world’s largest international organization, uniting law enforcement agencies from 196 countries and covering a significant part of the global community in the fight against transnational crime. However, despite such broad participation, some countries not in Interpol and territories still remain outside this global network. The reasons vary from complex political relations and national legal frameworks to issues of diplomatic recognition.
Let’s take a closer look at what countries are not in Interpol and what obstacles stand in the way of their joining this key organization in combating international crime.
What is Interpol and why is Membership Important?
Interpol is a global network that facilitates cooperation between the police forces of member countries in the joint fight against international crime. The organization’s key tasks include coordinating efforts to locate and apprehend suspects, facilitating the rapid exchange of information, and assisting in the investigation of serious crimes such as terrorism and organized crime. Interpol’s headquarters is located in Lyon, France. It is important to note that Interpol does not conduct its own investigations or arrests but provides significant support to national law enforcement agencies by granting access to its extensive databases (for example, on stolen vehicles, forged documents, and wanted persons), as well as secure communication channels like the I-24/7 system for the swift exchange of critical information between member countries. Thanks to this cooperation, countries can more effectively combat transnational threats.
Which countries are not the members of the Interpol?
Although Interpol is the largest global police organization, uniting 196 countries, several states and territories remain outside its membership. The reasons for this vary—from political and legal disagreements to the lack of international recognition. As a result, these non-interpol countries have limited access to Interpol’s crucial tools and resources, such as international arrest warrants, global databases, and assistance in conducting international investigations.
Below is the list of countries not in Interpol and territories that are not members of Interpol:
- UN Member States: Palau, Tuvalu, Micronesia;
- Partially recognized states and organizations: Taiwan, Abkhazia, Northern Cyprus, Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic, South Ossetia, Sovereign Military Order of Malta;
- Unrecognized territories: Somaliland, Transnistria, Nagorno-Karabakh (Artsakh);
- North Korea: although it previously cooperated with Interpol, its current involvement is limited.
Nations that are not members of Interpol not only lack access to international tools for combating crime but also face difficulties in cooperating with law enforcement authorities of other countries. However, bilateral cooperation with Interpol is possible if these countries without Interpol membership show interest in joint efforts to transnational organized crime.
What Are the Benefits of INTERPOL Membership?
Membership in the world’s largest police organization opens up broad opportunities for countries in the fight against international crime. To better understand what countries lose by not being members of Interpol, let’s look at the key benefits that membership in this organization provides.
- Access to Global Databases: One of the most important advantages is access to Interpol’s international databases. These resources contain up-to-date information on wanted criminals, terrorists, stolen vehicles, and forged documents, enabling prompt responses to threats and coordinated actions by police forces across different countries.
- International Cooperation and the I-24/7 Network: Interpol actively facilitates cooperation among law enforcement officers of member countries. Thanks to the secure communication network I-24/7, member states can exchange information in real time, significantly increasing the effectiveness of combating transnational crimes such as smuggling, human trafficking, and cybercrime. Interpol members can participate in international operations to apprehend criminals and swiftly neutralize threats.
- Training and Development: Interpol conducts educational and training programs aimed at preparing specialists in modern investigative techniques, evidence handling, and international law enforcement standards. These programs play a crucial role in strengthening the capabilities of member countries, especially developing nations, in fighting transnational crime and contribute to enhancing overall security.
Is Interpol’s Authority Recognized in Every Country?
It is important to understand that Interpol does not possess supranational police powers. The organization cannot independently carry out arrests, searches, or interrogations within any country’s territory. Its role is to coordinate and facilitate information exchange between law enforcement agencies of different states. Interpol issues various types of notices, such as Red Notices, which are requests to locate and arrest individuals for extradition based on national warrants.
However, such a notice is not an international arrest warrant, and each country decides independently whether to take any action in response. In countries that are not members of Interpol, the organization lacks official communication channels, which excludes formal cooperation. In these cases, Interpol cannot officially conduct investigations or exchange information on an international level. This means that countries outside Interpol are largely unable to use the organization’s mechanisms to combat international crime and track criminals abroad.
Can a non-member state seek help from the Interpol?
Although countries that are not part of Interpol do not have direct access to its databases and secure communication network, they can still interact with the organization in certain situations related to transnational organized crime. Requests for assistance or extradition may be made through Interpol member countries that have diplomatic relations with the non-interpol countries, or via special communication channels in emergency cases. Interpol can provide limited information in response to specific requests or help establish contacts with law enforcement agencies of member countries that hold the necessary information. However, it is important to understand that the lack of membership significantly restricts non-members’ ability to receive timely and comprehensive support from Interpol, and such interactions tend to be episodic rather than regular.
Does the Interpol prosecute criminals on transnational crimes?
No, the International Criminal Police Organization doesn’t have the authority to investigate, arrest, or prosecute criminals on their database. Instead, it facilitates law enforcement agencies worldwide to investigate and apprehend suspects pending extradition to the requesting country for further legal proceedings.
Legal Support from INTERPOL Lawyers
Issues related to Interpol’s activities, such as extradition requests or Red Notices, may affect the rights and interests of individuals, including citizens of countries that are not Interpol members. In such situations, timely legal support becomes especially important. Experts in international law provide assistance concerning requests and actions related to Interpol’s mechanisms. Their role is to protect against unlawful persecution, ensure the observance of human rights within international procedures, and offer consultations on international law matters connected to Interpol’s activities. Seeking qualified legal assistance promptly can help navigate complex situations and safeguard against potential adverse consequences.
FAQ
Is India a part of Interpol?
Yes, India is a member of Interpol. As one of the organization’s 196 member countries, India actively participates in international law enforcement cooperation, utilizing Interpol’s resources and networks to combat transnational crime and facilitate the exchange of information on criminals and criminal activities.
What countries are not part of Interpol?
Several countries and territories are not part of Interpol. These include UN member states like Palau, Tuvalu, and Micronesia, as well as partially recognized states such as Taiwan and Abkhazia. Unrecognized territories like Somaliland are also not members. North Korea’s current involvement is limited. A full list of countries not in Interpol can be found in the article above.
How many member countries in Interpol?
Interpol is the world’s largest international police organization and currently comprises 196 member countries. These member countries work together through Interpol’s global network to combat transnational crime, share vital information, and coordinate efforts in apprehending criminals across borders.
