We have 194 member countries, and we help police in all of them to work together to make the world a safer place.
To do this, we enable them to share and access data on crimes and criminals, and we offer a range of technical and operational support.
Today’s crimes are increasingly international. It is crucial that there is coordination among all the different players in maintaining a global security architecture.
Since INTERPOL is a global organization, it can provide this platform for cooperation; we enable police to work directly with their counterparts, even between countries which do not have diplomatic relations.
We also provide a voice for police on the world stage, engaging with governments at the highest level to encourage this cooperation and use of our services.
All our actions are politically neutral and taken within the limits of existing laws in different countries.
Who makes up INTERPOL?
The General Secretariat coordinates our day-to-day activities to fight a range of crimes. Run by the Secretary General, it is staffed by both police and civilians and comprises a headquarters in Lyon, a global complex for innovation in Singapore and several satellite offices in different regions.
In each country, an INTERPOL National Central Bureau (NCB) provides the central point of contact for the General Secretariat and other NCBs. An NCB is run by national police officials and usually sits in the government ministry responsible for policing.
The General Assembly is our governing body and it brings all countries together once a year to take decisions.
Work at Interpol
Come and join our 1,000 staff in both policing and support services who help us to fight international crime!
We aim to provide a diverse and respectful working environment that attracts, develops and retains talent.
The General Secretariat employs approximately 1,000 staff members from 100 different countries. Staff are based at the main building in Lyon (France), the Global Complex for Innovation in Singapore, or in one of our satellite offices.
Approximately one-quarter of staff are police officers seconded by their national administrations; three-quarters are international civil servants hired under contract directly by the Organization.
We accept applications from nationals of all our member countries to ensure that the Organization remains truly representative. Staff work in our four working languages (Arabic, English, French and Spanish) but a working knowledge of English is required for most posts.
Our staff values are respect, integrity, excellence, teamwork and innovation. The actions and behaviour of all officials should be guided by these values in their daily activities.
