INTERPOL’s President, Inspector General of the UAE Dr. Ahmed Naser Al-Raisi, sat with Lara Palmer to share his strategic vision for global policing — his commitment to modernisation, transparency, and diversity in the organisation he has led since November 2021.
Lara Palmer: What is your strategic vision for INTERPOL? Dr.
Ahmed Naser Al-Raisi: My strategic vision is to build a modern, transparent, and diverse organisation capable of addressing the evolving challenges in global law enforcement. In a world where crimes know no borders, a global policing organisation like INTERPOL is indispensable for tackling criminal activity and fostering international collaboration. Modernisation is at the forefront of our strategy. We are rolling out new technologies — including the INTERPOL Mobile Device, currently in beta testing, which provides frontline officers with real-time access to our databases. Transparency is equally crucial. Our dedicated Governance Working Group continuously evaluates and improves our governance structures, ensuring accountability and integrity.
L.P.: What are the most pressing challenges in global law enforcement?
A.A.: Cyber-enabled crime is rapidly growing across complex networks. Losses from cybercrime are expected to reach 10.5 trillion dollars by 2025 — the largest transfer of economic wealth in history. In 2021 alone, cybercrime caused 6 trillion in damages globally, yet law enforcement intercepted only one percent of illicit financial flows. INTERPOL has established a dedicated unit to combat crypto crimes and launched the world’s first global police metaverse.
L.P.: How is INTERPOL leveraging technology?
A.A.: Our Innovation Centre in Singapore promotes creative solutions to technology-enabled threats. Some of our most game-changing innovations include the INTERPOL Mobile Device — providing officers worldwide with instant database access — and AVA, an AI tool that increases the efficiency of our internal systems. The INTERPOL Metaverse offers a virtual world designed for law enforcement. The INTERPOL Virtual Academy provides over 20,000 courses to law enforcement officers in member countries.
L.P.: What role does AI play in modern policing?
A.A.: AI plays a crucial role in enhancing global law enforcement capabilities. We have integrated it into automatic patrol systems, identifying vulnerable and exploited children, and improving police emergency call centres. INTERPOL’s Responsible Artificial Intelligence Lab and the AI Toolkit, developed with the UN, ensure the responsible use of AI with transparency, human rights compliance, and ethical standards.
L.P.: What values did your parents instil in you?
A.A.: Growing up in the UAE, my parents taught me integrity and honesty — paramount in international law enforcement. They emphasised respect for others regardless of ethnicity, background, or belief. And they encouraged a strong sense of duty and responsibility — that serving the community and working for the greater good is a noble pursuit. These values have equipped me to lead with determination in the ever-evolving landscape of global law enforcement.