Glasgow's SEC to host 195 countries at Interpol general assembly next year

Glasgow has been named as host of the 92nd Interpol general assembly next year.

The assembly, which brings together more than 1,000 senior delegates from 195 member countries, will take place at the SEC between November 4 and 7.

Believed to be the biggest and most important policing event in the world, the annual event brings together member states to prevent global illicit activity, and to tackle criminal threats and risk worldwide.

The assembly is Interpol’s highest governing body and the largest global gathering of senior law enforcement officials and heads of ministries.

“Global challenges call for global solutions,” said UK Government security minister Tom Tugendhat.

“Hosting the Interpol general assembly in Glasgow underlines the UK’s role as a global leader when it comes to security and policing, and demonstrates our steadfast commitment to tackle global threats such as organised crime, terrorism and fraud.”

The UK-held assembly will include elections for ten key leadership posts, including for the new secretary general – a critical role for co-ordinating the global response to new emerging threats and criminality.

The event will be held in partnership with the National Crime Agency, which is the operational lead for tackling serious and organised crime in the UK.

Scottish Government cabinet secretary for justice and home affairs, Angela Constance said: “Glasgow has a global reputation for hosting major international events and hosting the Interpol general assembly is yet another opportunity to add to that impressive list.

“The Scottish Government will continue to work closely with partners in the UK Government, law enforcement, local government and Police Scotland – which is already globally recognised for its work keeping the people of Scotland safe – as we welcome delegates from around the world to Glasgow.”

Graeme Biggar, director general of the National Crime Agency, said: “We are immensely proud to be the host law enforcement agency for the 2024 General Assembly and to lead the UK delegation.

“Crime has no borders, so now more than ever before the UK must work with its partners around the world to ensure criminals have no place to hide so we can keep our citizens safe.”