EU and Brazil Enhance Security Cooperation to Combat Organized Crime
The EU and Brazil have signed an agreement to enhance collaboration against organized crime and terrorism, enabling operational information exchange. This milestone follows Brazil’s strategic partnership with Europol since 2017. The agreement awaits European Parliament’s consent and aims to bolster security across both regions through effective law enforcement cooperation.
The European Union (EU) and Brazil have formalized an agreement to enhance the collaboration between Europol and Brazilian law enforcement agencies, facilitating the exchange of critical operational information. This significant accord aims to strengthen joint endeavors to combat serious organized crime and terrorism, thereby bolstering security on both sides of the Atlantic.
The agreement was executed by Magnus Brunner, the Commissioner for Home Affairs and Migration, and Ricardo Lewandowski, Brazil’s Minister of Justice and Public Security, with the presence of Europol’s Executive Director, Catherine De Bolle. This milestone illustrates Brazil’s pivotal role as a partner to Europol since 2017, showcasing substantial operational cooperation in various areas, including drug trafficking and cybercrime.
Being the first Latin American country to sign such an agreement with the EU, Brazil is poised to enhance law enforcement collaboration, allowing for effective disruption of criminal networks and more efficient combat against transnational crime. The full implementation of this agreement awaits the consent of the European Parliament, with Europol prepared to assist in its execution.
Commissioner Brunner emphasized the significance of international cooperation, stating it is fundamental for fortifying internal security. He noted, “This agreement will provide us with the opportunity to enhance information exchange with a key partner, Brazil, and in turn increase Europol’s support to Member States’ cross-border criminal investigations.”
Catherine De Bolle highlighted the partnership’s evolution, declaring, “This agreement marks a new chapter in our trusted partnership with Brazil. By strengthening our operational cooperation, we are enhancing our ability to tackle the most pressing security threats together.”
The collaboration with non-EU countries forms a vital element of Europol’s strategy against serious organized crime. Through strengthening ties with reliable international partners, Europol enhances EU law enforcement authorities’ capacity to address transnational challenges. This agreement reinforces Europol’s global network, allowing for a coordinated strategy to combat cross-border criminal operations.
Recent operational highlights involving Brazil include significant drug seizures and arrests, showcasing the practical benefits of this collaboration. Examples include the collapse of a cocaine cartel in Spain in June 2024, and the arrest of a notorious drug trafficker along with numerous associates in Brazil in October 2023, reflecting the vital role of the agreement in combating organized crime.
In conclusion, the recent agreement between the European Union and Brazil signifies a milestone in international cooperation aimed at combating serious organized crime and terrorism. The collaboration will enhance information sharing and operational support between law enforcement agencies, thereby strengthening security measures on both sides of the Atlantic. As Brazil becomes the first Latin American nation to engage in such partnership with the EU, the potential for impactful cooperation remains high, promising significant advancements in the fight against transnational crime.
Original Source: www.europol.europa.eu
