On Thursday, Morocco was elected as Interpol’s Vice-President for Africa, a significant recognition of the country’s commitment to regional and international security efforts. The election, held during Interpol’s 92nd General Assembly in Glasgow, saw Morocco’s candidate receive overwhelming support from 96 member nations, establishing a clear lead over other contenders.
According to Morocco’s General Directorate of National Security (DGSN), this position allows Morocco to reinforce its leadership in advancing South-South security cooperation. The Kingdom’s bid for the role stemmed from a strong commitment to bolstering police structures in Africa, sharing its expertise across the continent, and building strategic alliances to combat transnational crime.
A strategic vision for south-south cooperation
Morocco’s candidacy reflects the country’s strategic vision for South-South cooperation, guided by the high-level directives of King Mohammed VI. This approach prioritizes robust partnerships with African nations at all levels, including security. Morocco’s comprehensive bid underscored its investment in building human capital within African police forces, enhancing security infrastructures, and fostering cross-border collaboration to tackle issues like irregular migration and human trafficking.
As Vice-President for Africa, Morocco aims to lead coordinated efforts among African and global Interpol offices to combat terrorism and address regional extremist threats swiftly and effectively. A key focus will also be on preventing the misuse of artificial intelligence and emerging technologies by organized crime groups, positioning Morocco at the forefront of countering unconventional security risks.
Mohamed Dkhissi takes the lead at Interpol for Africa
Morocco’s newly elected representative, Mohamed Dkhissi, head of the National Central Bureau of Interpol-Rabat and Director of the Judicial Police, was nominated by the DGSN for his extensive experience and dedication to strengthening law enforcement partnerships in Africa.
The Moroccan delegation, led by Abdellatif Hammouchi, Director General of National Security and Territorial Surveillance, participated in Glasgow’s assembly, where Hammouchi engaged in both multilateral and bilateral discussions aimed at advancing international security cooperation. His efforts reinforced Morocco’s candidacy and highlighted the country’s role as a proactive contributor to global policing efforts.
Interpol: A pillar of global policing since 1923
Founded in 1923, Interpol is a global organization that supports its 196 member countries by facilitating information sharing and strengthening their national capacities to combat transnational crime. As an integral member, Morocco will now have a greater influence in shaping Interpol’s policies in Africa, addressing the growing challenges of cross-border crime, and ensuring a safer continent through cooperative security efforts.
