INTERPOL's latest Annual Report is out and can be found here.  It contains information regarding INTERPOL's leadership, activities, new endeavors, priorities, infrastructure, and funding.

Of particular interest is the organization's strategic priorities regarding its legal foundation.  It has been known for some time now that INTERPOL deeply values its status as an international organization with the accompanying immunities.  The new report, however, asserts that INTERPOL plans not only to guard the immunity that it currently enjoys, but also to "seek the extension of privileges and immunities" in the future.

The report gives no details as to how such an extension will be sought, but certainly the recently issued new rules on the processing of data are relevant to the consideration of INTERPOL's immunities internationally.  In its new rules, the organization increased the accountability of its National Central Bureaus (NCB's).  It also distanced itself from the NCBs' actions, at least theoretically.  

Regardless of the manner in which INTERPOL attempts to increase its reach while protecting itself from exposure, the real test will be whether the formal rules and statements of purpose are underwritten by substantive, meaningful action by INTERPOL and by its quasi-appellate body, the CCF.

As always, thoughts and comments are welcomed.