Europol: Commission welcomes entry into force of the new mandate

Today, the EU agency for law enforcement cooperation (Europol) marks the entry into force of its new and stronger mandate. Under this reinforced mandate, Europol will be able to step up its operational and analytical support to Member States in tackling emerging security threats and fighting serious and organised crime as well as terrorism. It will also enable the agency to cooperate directly with private parties, in full compliance with strict data protection requirements.  Vice-President responsible for the Security Union, Margaritis Schinas, said: “Europol is a living example of where the EU is stronger by pooling its resources and forces together. With its stronger mandate, Europol will be equipped with enhanced tools and safeguards to support police forces in investigating crime and in developing pioneering methods to tackle cybercrime. Today’s entry into force of the new Europol mandate is another decisive step in delivering on the Security Union.” Commissioner for Home Affairs, Ylva Johansson, said: “Because fighting organised crime and terrorism depends on police cooperation at European level, Europol is essential to support the law enforcement authorities in their investigations. With its stronger mandate, Europol will be able to step up its expertise and operational capabilities to become the EU information hub on criminal activities and a cornerstone of EU’s internal security architecture”. The new mandate will also allow Europol to develop new technologies that match law enforcement needs. These changes come with a reinforced data protection framework as well as stronger parliamentary oversight and accountability.