The European law enforcement and intelligence agency Europol celebrated its 10th anniversary yesterday.

Said Rob Wainwright, Europol’s Director, ‘Europol is stronger than ever. Together with our cooperation partners we are combating all forms of serious organised crime and terrorism. Our aim is to reduce the harm to individuals, communities, institutions, and European society caused by criminal acts. The criminals are adapting to the globalised world and they take advantage of new markets, new trade patterns and less regulation.

In order to match the criminals and these trends we need to be on our toes. The key now and in the future remains the exchange of information and intelligence among law enforcement agencies.’

The agency employs some 625 staff at its HQ in The Hague. They work closely with the law enforcement agencies of the 27 EU member states , as well as with other partners such as Australia, Canada, The US and Norway.

If you wish to comment or express an opinion about this article please e-mail the editor@TheHagueOnLine.com