Since 2010, EU Member States, institutions and agencies have been working together to fight crime through a common framework, the EU Policy Cycle (EMPACT).
The operational results of EMPACT
(European Multidisciplinary Cooperation Platform Against Criminal Threats) in 2019 have been presented at the video conference of home affairs ministers held today.
Last year’s all these EU joint efforts to combat crime led to 8 000 arrests. Additionally, more than 1 400 victims of trafficking in human beings and online child pornography were identified, more than 400 million euros in fraud affecting the interests of the EU were prevented, and 75 tonnes of drugs seized. Also, more than 72 million euros’ worth of criminal assets were frozen and seized.
Looking beyond the operational results, the integrated and multidisciplinary character of EMPACT, which also includes prevention and training, is a key factor for the success of this tool. CEPOL makes a vital contribution to EMPACT through training, collaborating with other relevant actors, ranging from the competent authorities in Member States to the EU agencies and institutions, the external partners and the private sector.
The multidisciplinary approach of EMPACT provides a strong common platform for a broad range of actors at national and EU level, including police, border guards, customs, judicial authorities, labour inspectors and private sector operators, to mention just some. It has helped to increase mutual trust, and allowed for a more flexible and coordinated approach to respond to the complex and ever-evolving nature of crime.
Read: Fighting organised crime: EMPACT 2019 operational results (Presidency note)
Read: EMPACT - Implementation and monitoring. Factsheets.
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