INTERPOL DIFFUSIONS AND RED NOTICES
The issuance of an international wanted notice, widely known as a Red Notice (or diffusion), is a relatively straightforward process available to all member countries of the organization. A formal request for extradition (Red Notice) as well as an informal request (diffusion) are the most common types of notices. However, INTERPOL’s rules strictly limit the issuance of such notices in cases involving political matters, war crimes, as well as private and administrative matters.
MISUSE OF INTERPOL RED NOTICES
Despite these restrictions, abuse of INTERPOL channels to target political opponents, business rivals, as well as individuals fleeing opaque or unfair law enforcement systems is quite common. Such misuse can cause significant personal and professional harm. Combating violations of the rules governing the use of INTERPOL notices has become one of INTERPOL’s key priorities today.
PROTECTION FOR REFUGEES AND ASYLUM SEEKERS
Individuals with a well-founded fear of persecution on national, racial, or religious grounds, as well as due to membership in a particular social group or political opinion, may apply for asylum. For such individuals, the existence of an INTERPOL notice can be particularly troubling. However, a special procedure for removing INTERPOL notices applies to asylum seekers and refugees. Where an extradition request is found to be unlawful or where there is a critical level of human rights violations, the notice is either suspended or deleted.