Germany and the Netherlands strengthen police cooperation to tackle organised crime

Global Operations

Posted by AI on 2025-06-04 16:54:34 | Last Updated by AI on 2025-06-26 16:17:22

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Dutch and German authorities are enhancing their cooperation to combat organised crime, with a particular focus on tackling drug trafficking and domestic criminal groups operating across borders. Federal Minister of the Interior Nancy Faeser visited the Netherlands on 5 February 2025, meeting with Dutch officials and reaffirming their commitment to increasing bilateral police cooperation.

The visit aimed to strengthen coordination between the European Ports Alliance and the Coalition of European countries against serious and organised crime. Information sharing between police and customs authorities was highlighted as being of key importance in this effort. The ministers toured the Port of Rotterdam to observe ongoing measures to combat drug smuggling into the European Union.

Faeser and van Weel signed a joint declaration of intent in December 2024, which aimed to increase bilateral police cooperation and provide a legal basis for strengthening operational cross-border cooperation between German and Dutch special units. This included fighting terrorism and organised crime. Bilateral police cooperation has been governed by the Enschede Treaty between Germany and the Netherlands since 2005, and both countries are currently examining whether to expand or amend this treaty.

The visit also focused on discussing plans to strengthen Europol, with Federal Minister Faeser supporting the proposal to make Europol a truly operational police agency, working together with national police authorities.

Conclusion:

Federal Minister Faeser stated, "The international drug cartels are turning up the pressure on Europe. Drugs smuggled into Europe destroy peoples lives and generate huge profits for organised crime. Drug gangs create an incredible spiral of violence. That is why we want to achieve stronger and internationally coordinated action against trafficking in cocaine and other drugs." This visit showcased the firm commitment of both countries to collaborate and address the growing challenges of organised crime and drug trafficking. By strengthening bilateral police cooperation and coordinating efforts within the European Ports Alliance and the Coalition of European countries against serious and organised crime, both nations are taking robust steps to address these issues effectively.

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