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Subject: International Relations

  • What did the ILO report state about International migrants?

    Why in the News?

    According to the International Labour Organisation’s (ILO) Global Estimates on International Migrant Workers, released in Geneva, the global population of international migrants reached 284.5 million in 2022, with 255.7 million of them being of working age (15 and older).

    Why are there more male International Migrants in the global labour force than women? 

    • Gender Roles and Norms: Traditional gender roles and societal norms often restrict women’s ability to migrate autonomously. Women are frequently expected to prioritize family responsibilities, which limits their opportunities for international migration and labor market participation.
    • Labour Market Segmentation: Women are often concentrated in specific sectors such as domestic work, caregiving, and low-skilled service jobs, which are undervalued and less visible.
      • Men, on the other hand, dominate higher-paying sectors like construction and agriculture, which are more open to international migrants.
    • Barriers to Employment: As per ILO, Migrant women face higher unemployment rates (8.7%) compared to migrant men (6.2%), due to factors such as language barriers, unrecognised qualifications, limited childcare options, and gender-based discrimination in host countries.
    • Economic and Social Independence: Women’s migration decisions are influenced by their access to resources and social networks. A lack of autonomy or financial independence can hinder their ability to migrate for work.
      • In some cases, women migrate as dependents or spouses of male workers, which limits their access to legal employment opportunities in the host country.

    Which economic sectors attract IMs?

    • Construction: The construction industry employs a significant number of male migrants, particularly in regions with rapid urbanisation and infrastructure projects. This sector, part of the 35.6% of male migrant employment in industry, plays a vital role in economic expansion.
    • Agriculture: Globally, 7.1% of international migrants work in agriculture, with higher figures in regions like Africa, where 27.5% are employed in agriculture, forestry, and fishing. Migrants are crucial for meeting seasonal labour demands.
    • Manufacturing: Manufacturing heavily relies on migrant workers in industrialized nations, with migrants filling manual labour and skill-specific roles. This sector highlights the alignment of migrant labour with economic development needs.
    • Services Sector: Approximately 68.4% of international migrants are employed in the services sector, compared to 51.5% of non-migrants. This sector includes a wide range of occupations, but it is particularly noted for:
      • Care Work: A significant number of migrant women are employed in caregiving roles, which include healthcare and domestic services. About 28.8% of migrant women work in the care economy.
      • Hospitality and Retail: Many migrants find employment in hotels, restaurants, and retail stores, especially in high-demand tourist areas.

    Which are the main host countries?

    Approximately 68.4% of international migrants are concentrated in high-income countries followed by 17.4% (29.2 million) in upper-middle-income countries.

    • Regional Distribution of Migrant Workers (2022): International migrants in the labour force were primarily concentrated in Europe and Central Asia (34.5%, 57.8 million), followed by the Americas (27.3%, 45.8 million), Asia and the Pacific (16.2%, 27.2 million), the Arab States (13.5%, 22.6 million), and Africa (8.5%, 14.3 million). The majority resided in Northern, Southern, and Western Europe (23.3%), Northern America (22.6%), and the Arab States (13.5%), collectively hosting 59.4% of all migrant workers.
    • Significant Proportions in Labor Forces: Migrants formed more than one-third (37.2%) of the Arab States’ labour force. Significant proportions were also observed in Europe and Central Asia (12.9%) and the Americas (9%), highlighting their vital role in these economies.

    Conclusion: Governments and international organizations should implement gender-responsive migration policies that address barriers faced by women. This includes creating support systems for childcare, recognizing foreign qualifications, and ensuring equal access to legal employment opportunities in host countries.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q “Success of make in India program depends on the success of Skill India programme and radical labour reforms.” Discuss with logical arguments. (UPSC IAS/2015)

  • [17th January 2025] The Hindu Op-ed: Great anniversaries of peace initiatives, a role for India

    PYQ Relevance:

    Q) In what ways would the ongoing US-Iran Nuclear Pact Controversy affect the national interest of India? How should India respond to its situation?  (UPSC CSE 2018)

    Mentor’s Comment: UPSC mains have always focused on the Nuclear Pact Controversy (2018), and ‘India a position in its global strategy ’ (2019).

    In 2025, we mark 80 years since the first nuclear test and the bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, which killed up to 2,46,000 people. Citing the Bhagavad Gita, Oppenheimer described the destruction as “Death by a thousand suns.” On Nagasaki’s bombing day, Bertrand Russell warned humanity to choose between destruction or adopting wiser political thinking.

    Today’s editorial talks about the nuclear power challenges in the world due to nuclear proliferation by Countries. In this situation how India can play an important role in promoting peace. This content can be used in IR topics GS Paper 2.

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News? 

    It’s time for India to take action for peace since there are no great figures like Russell, Einstein, or Rotblat left to warn the world.

    What historical peace initiatives can serve as models for current and future efforts?

    ‱ Russell-Einstein Manifesto (1955): This document, drafted by prominent scientists including Bertrand Russell and Albert Einstein, called for global disarmament and emphasized the need for humanity to remember its shared values over national interests.  
    ‱ Avadi Resolution (1955): Passed by the Indian National Congress, this resolution called for the prohibition of atomic and hydrogen bombs and urged the United Nations to address the grave threat posed by nuclear weapons. It anticipated the need for global awareness regarding the dangers of war and weapons of mass destruction.
    ‱ Rajiv Gandhi’s Action Plan (1988): This initiative aimed for a nuclear-free world and emphasized non-violence. Gandhi’s approach sought to engage international leaders in discussions about disarmament and peace, reflecting a commitment to global security.

    How can India leverage its unique position to contribute to global peace initiatives?

    • Nuclear Weapons State: As one of the nine countries with nuclear capabilities, India has a critical role in discussions about disarmament and non-proliferation. Its experience and perspective can foster dialogue among nuclear states and promote responsible stewardship of these weapons.
    • Historical Leadership: India’s past leadership in peace initiatives, such as the Avadi Resolution, positions it as a potential mediator in current geopolitical tensions. By advocating for disarmament based on historical precedents, India can influence global norms around nuclear weapons.
    • Cultural Emphasis on Non-Violence: India’s philosophical foundation in non-violence can be leveraged to promote peaceful resolutions to conflicts, encouraging other nations to adopt similar approaches in international relations.

    What challenges does India face in enhancing its role in international peace efforts?

    • Geopolitical Tensions: Ongoing conflicts with neighbouring countries, particularly Pakistan and China, complicate India’s ability to advocate for disarmament without appearing vulnerable. These tensions may hinder collaborative peace efforts.
    • Domestic Political Landscape: Political dynamics within India can affect its foreign policy priorities. A focus on national security may overshadow initiatives aimed at global peace, making it challenging to balance domestic concerns with international responsibilities.
    • Global Complacency: The prevailing complacency regarding nuclear threats poses a significant challenge. Despite historical lessons from events like the 2004 tsunami or nuclear bombings, many nations remain indifferent to the risks posed by nuclear arsenals, complicating efforts for collective action

    Way forward: 

    • Reviving Multilateral Engagements: India should initiate and lead international conferences focused on disarmament and the prevention of mass annihilation, drawing from its historical peace initiatives.  
    • Strengthening Regional Cooperation: India must work towards reducing regional tensions with neighbours through confidence-building measures, bilateral dialogues, and showcasing its commitment to non-aggression. This will enable it to credibly advocate for global disarmament and peace.

    https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/great-anniversaries-of-peace-initiatives-a-role-for-india/article69105396.ece

  • An alliance of democracies with India at its core

    Why in the News?

    Europe and India need a stronger, more practical partnership and together with the United States, they can become an unbeatable force.

    Why do all democratic countries need to come together? 

    • Unified Front Against Authoritarianism: Democracies can counter coercive tactics and aggression from authoritarian regimes like China and Russia by standing together to deter threats to vulnerable nations, and reinforcing global stability.
    • Advocating Democratic Principles: A collective alliance provides a platform to promote democratic values such as human rights, the rule of law, and free markets fostering an international environment supportive of democracy.
    • Addressing Global Challenges Collaboratively: Democracies can pool resources and expertise to tackle global issues like climate change, terrorism, and public health crises through joint strategies and initiatives.
    • Strengthening Economic Ties: Enhanced economic cooperation within an alliance can promote free trade, reduce barriers, and create a resilient network to counter economic coercion from non-democratic states.
    • Bolstering Democratic Resilience: By sharing best practices, democracies can strengthen their institutions, address internal polarisation, and enhance resilience against threats to their democratic systems.

    What is the strategic importance of India in a global alliance of democracies?

    • Geopolitical Counterbalance: India serves as a crucial counterbalance to China in the Indo-Pacific region.
      • As a democracy with significant economic growth potential, India’s alignment with European democracies can help counter authoritarian influences, particularly from Russia and China, which pose threats to global democratic norms.
    • Economic Partnership: The EU-India relationship is economically significant, with India projected to become the world’s third-largest economy in the next decade.
      • Strengthening trade ties can enhance economic security for both parties and reduce dependency on China. The EU has recognised India as a ‘Trusted Partner’ in critical sectors such as technology and pharmaceuticals.
    • Shared Values: Both Europe and India share foundational values of democracy, rule of law, and human rights. This commonality provides a strong basis for collaboration on global issues such as climate change, security, and sustainable development.

    How can India contribute to the promotion and protection of democratic norms internationally?

    • Promoting Democratic Values: India can advocate for democratic governance and human rights on international platforms, leveraging its status as the world’s largest democracy to influence other nations positively.
    • Collaborative Initiatives: Through partnerships like the Trade and Technology Council (TTC), India can collaborate with Europe on emerging technologies and critical industries.
      • Such cooperation can promote transparency and ethical standards in technology development.
    • Defense Cooperation: India’s existing defense collaborations with the U.S. and its role in multilateral security frameworks like the Quad can be expanded to include European partners, enhancing collective security against authoritarian regimes.

    What challenges does India face in leading or participating in this alliance?

    • Balancing Relations with Russia and China: India’s historical ties with Russia complicate its position within a democratic alliance. While it seeks to maintain these relationships for strategic reasons, it must also navigate criticism from Western allies regarding its stance on Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
    • Internal Democratic Challenges: India faces significant internal challenges related to its democratic processes, including concerns about political dissent and civil liberties.
      • Addressing these issues is essential for India to lead effectively within a global democratic alliance.
    • Trade Negotiation Stagnation: Ongoing negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the EU and India have faced hurdles due to disagreements over sustainability measures and human rights issues.
      • Progress in these negotiations is crucial for realizing the full potential of their partnership.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthening Internal Democracy and Rule of Law: India should address domestic concerns related to political dissent, civil liberties, and democratic processes to enhance its credibility and leadership role within a global democratic alliance.
    • Expanding Strategic Partnerships: India should accelerate negotiations on trade agreements, deepen collaboration in critical sectors like technology and defense, and align with democratic allies to counter authoritarian influences effectively.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Indian and USA are two large democracies. Examine the basic tenets on which the two political systems are based. (UPSC IAS/2018) 

  • African leaders adopt new Kampala Declaration

    Why in the News?

    The Extraordinary African Union Summit on the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Program (CAADP) concluded in Kampala, Uganda, with the adoption of the transformative Kampala Declaration.

    kampala

    What is the Kampala Declaration?

    Details
    About
    • Successor to the Malabo Declaration (2014–2025).
    • Focuses on transforming agriculture into a modern, climate-smart sector.
    • Aligns with CAADP’s vision and African Union’s Agenda 2063.
    Key Highlights
    • Adoption of a ten-year post-Malabo agenda (2026–2035) with implementation and monitoring strategies.
    • Promotes climate-smart innovations for sustainable food production.
    • Integrates agricultural policies with broader development objectives like nutrition and environmental sustainability.
    • Acknowledges global challenges like COVID-19 and geopolitical disruptions.
    Significant Features
    • Adopts an agri-food systems approach, addressing issues across the food value chain.
    • Emphasizes environmental sustainability and diverse, nutritious diets.
    • Builds resilience to withstand climate, economic, and geopolitical shocks.
    • Ensures involvement of diverse stakeholders, including policymakers, farmers, and private sector actors.
    • Establishes monitoring frameworks for accountability and progress tracking.

     

    PYQ:

    [2015] The ‘Fortaleza Declaration’ recently in the news, is related to the affairs of:

    (a) ASEAN

    (b) BRICS

    (c) OECD

    (d) WTO

  • India summons envoy: Why Bangladesh has objected to fencing along the border

    Why in the News?

    Recently, New Delhi called Bangladesh’s Acting High Commissioner to India to discuss border security and issues related to fencing.

    What are the India-Bangladesh border guidelines?

    • 1975 Joint Guidelines: According to the 1975 Joint India-Bangladesh Guidelines for Border Authorities, no defense structures can be constructed within 150 yards of the international boundary by either side. This includes any form of fencing deemed a defensive structure.
    • Defence Structures: India does not classify wire fencing as a defence structure, whereas Bangladesh and Pakistan do, leading to differing perspectives on the legality and implications of such constructions along the border.

    What are the issues between India and Bangladesh? 

    • Fencing Disputes: The primary contention revolves around India’s construction of barbed wire fencing along the border, which Bangladesh claims violates the 1975 agreement. Recently, incidents in Malda and Cooch Behar have highlighted tensions, with Bangladesh’s Border Guards attempting to obstruct these efforts.
    • Cross-Border Crime: India justifies fencing as a necessary measure to combat cross-border crimes, including smuggling and trafficking. However, Bangladesh argues that such measures inconvenience local residents and violate their sovereignty.
    • Diplomatic Tensions: The situation has led to reciprocal diplomatic actions, with both countries summoning each other’s diplomats to express concerns over border management practices.

    Why need to fence the India-Bangladesh border? 

    • To Prevent Cross-Border Crimes: Fencing helps reduce the smuggling of goods, drugs, and arms, as well as human trafficking, which are major concerns in border areas. For example, regions like Malda in West Bengal have seen high rates of cattle smuggling, which fencing aims to curb.
    • To Manage Unauthorized Crossings: Fencing is crucial to control illegal immigration and unauthorized movements across the border, which can strain local resources and create security challenges. For instance, in Assam, illegal migration has led to demographic shifts, contributing to political and social tensions.
    • To Address Geographical Complexities: The border’s unique geography, with rivers and villages close to the boundary, makes monitoring difficult, necessitating physical barriers. For example, in areas like Cooch Behar and the Dahagram–Angarpota enclave, fencing helps clearly demarcate the border and prevent disputes.

    What are the steps taken by the Indian Government?

    • Current Status: As of early 2025, approximately 3,180.65 kilometres of the border have been fenced, with around 915.35 kilometres remaining to be completed.
      • The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has set a new deadline for completion by March 2024, although this is likely to be missed due to various challenges.
    • Mixed Barriers Approach: The government plans to utilize both physical and non-physical barriers for the remaining unfenced stretches. This includes advanced technologies such as sensors and surveillance systems in areas where traditional fencing is not feasible due to geographical constraints.
    • Increased Security Measures: Alongside fencing, there are plans to enhance floodlighting, establish more border outposts, and improve integrated checkposts to bolster security along the border.

    Way forward: 

    • Enhanced Bilateral Cooperation: Strengthen dialogue mechanisms, such as flag meetings and joint consultations, to resolve disputes amicably and ensure mutual agreement on border management practices, including fencing.
    • Integrated Border Management: Implement smart border solutions, combining advanced surveillance technologies and community involvement, to address security concerns while minimizing disruptions to local populations.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q  Analyze internal security threats and transborder crimes along Myanmar, Bangladesh and Pakistan borders including Line of Control (LoC). Also discuss the role played by various security forces in this regard. (UPSC IAS/2020)

  • Places in news: Kerch Strait

    Why in the News?

    Two Russian ships spilled 3,350 tonnes of low-grade fuel into the Kerch Strait in Crimea, posing an environmental threat to the biodiversity hotspot.

    About the Kerch Strait

    • The Kerch Strait is a narrow, strategically crucial waterway connecting the Black Sea and the Sea of Azov.
    • It serves as a natural maritime corridor between the Crimean Peninsula and the Russian mainland.
    • It stretches approximately 41 kilometers in length and varying between 4-15 kilometers in width.
    • The strait features the Kerch-Yenikalsky canal, a critical maritime passage enabling larger vessels to traverse between the Black and Azov Seas.
    •  Port facilities at Kavkaz and Kerch serve as essential transportation hubs, facilitating significant cargo and passenger movements.
    • Geopolitical Significance
      • Since Russia’s annexation of Crimea in 2014, the Kerch Strait has become a focal point of international tension.
      • The construction of the Crimean Bridge in 2018 provides a direct land connection between Russian territory and the Crimean Peninsula.

    PYQ:

    [2008] Which one of the following straits is nearest to the International Date Line?

    (a) Malacca Strait

    (b) Bering Strait

    (c) Strait of Florida

    (d) Strait of Gibraltar

  • Indians abroad

    Why in the News?

    At the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD), the Prime Minister called the Indian diaspora “ambassadors to the world.” He praised them for blending into local societies, helping communities, and contributing to India’s progress.

    Why do celebrate Pravasi Bharatiya Divas?

    • Pravasi Bharatiya Divas is the flagship event organized by the Ministry of External Affairs to honor the achievements and contributions of Indians living abroad.
    • This celebration is held every two years on January 9, marking the day in 1915 when Mahatma Gandhi, regarded as the greatest Pravasi, returned to India from South Africa to lead the country’s freedom movement.
    • Since 2015, the event has been held biennially, with theme-based conferences organized during the intervening years.
    • The location of the convention changes to showcase the progress and diversity of different regions in India.

    Who are the Girmitiyas?

    • The Girmitiyas were indentured laborers from British India who were transported during the 19th and early 20th centuries to work on plantations in various countries.
    • The term “Girmitiyas” originates from the Indian pronunciation of the English word “agreement”, referencing the contracts they signed.
    • The Girmitiyas were sent to places such as Fiji, Mauritius, Seychelles, Reunion, South Africa, Trinidad and Tobago, British Guiana (now Guyana), Suriname, Malaysia, and Kenya.
    • These laborers were bound by contracts, called Girmits (agreements), which required them to work for a single employer at a fixed wage for a period of 3 to 5 years.

    What are the challenges faced by Indians abroad?

    • Increasing Visa Restrictions: Countries like the United States and the United Kingdom have implemented stricter immigration policies, particularly affecting skilled Indian workers.
      • For instance, during Donald Trump’s presidency, uncertainties surrounding H-1B visas created significant anxiety among Indian professionals seeking employment in the U.S. This has led to a perception that Indian workers are being unfairly targeted as competition for local jobs.
    • Global Conflicts:  Many Indians work in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, where job security is often threatened by volatile oil prices and changing labour laws.
      • For example, “Saudisation” policies in Saudi Arabia have forced many Indian workers to return home unexpectedly, leading to economic hardship.
      • Additionally, ongoing conflicts in regions like Iraq and Syria pose risks to the safety of Indians living and working there.
    • Political Vulnerability: The Indian government’s recent actions to revoke Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cards from individuals critical of its policies have created a climate of fear among the diaspora. This has raised concerns about freedom of expression and political rights for those living abroad, making many feel vulnerable and unce.

    What role does the Indian diaspora play in India’s global influence?

    • Economic Contributions: The Indian diaspora plays a crucial role in India’s economy through substantial remittances, which totalled approximately $108 billion in 2022. These funds significantly contribute to poverty reduction and economic stability in India.Example: Remittances from the UAE
    • Political Influence: Many individuals of Indian origin hold prominent political positions in various countries, enhancing India’s political clout on global platforms such as the United Nations.Example: Kamala Harris
    • Cultural Diplomacy: The diaspora acts as cultural ambassadors, promoting Indian traditions, values, and soft power globally through initiatives like yoga, Bollywood cinema, and festivals.Example: International Day of Yoga
    • Networking Opportunities: The diaspora serves as a bridge between India and other nations, facilitating trade relations and foreign direct investment (FDI), thereby enhancing India’s global economic standing.

    What are the steps taken by the government? 

    • Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs: Established in 2004, this ministry was created to specifically address issues faced by the Indian diaspora. It was later merged with the Ministry of External Affairs in 2016 to streamline efforts and enhance synergy in engaging with the diaspora.
    • Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas: Celebrated annually since 2003, this event recognizes the contributions of the Indian diaspora to India’s progress and fosters a sense of connection between Indians abroad and their homeland.
    • Know India Programme (KIP): This initiative aims to familiarize youth of Indian origin with contemporary India through a three-week orientation program. It provides exposure to various aspects of Indian culture, economy, and society.
    • Pravasi Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PKVY): Launched to enhance the skills of Indian workers going abroad, this scheme provides training on laws, language, and culture relevant to their destination countries.
    • Scholarship Programme for Diaspora Children (SPDC): This program offers scholarships for Persons of Indian Origin (PIO) and Non-Resident Indian (NRI) students pursuing undergraduate courses in India
    • Proxy Voting for NRIs: The Representation of the People (Amendment) Bill 2017 allows NRIs to participate in elections through proxy voting, enhancing their engagement in India’s democratic processes.

    How can India better engage with its diaspora? (Way forward) 

    • Inclusive Policies: The Indian government should adopt inclusive and non-partisan policies that foster a sense of belonging among all members of the diaspora, regardless of their political views.
    • Addressing Concerns: Proactively addressing issues such as visa restrictions and safety concerns in conflict zones can enhance trust and cooperation between the diaspora and the Indian government.
    • Leveraging Expertise: India can better engage its diaspora by tapping into their expertise in various fields, encouraging knowledge transfer, investment in startups, and collaboration on technological innovations.
    • Cultural Exchange Programs: Promoting cultural initiatives that celebrate Indian heritage can strengthen ties between India and its diaspora, fostering a sense of identity and community.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q ‘Indian diaspora has a decisive role to play in the politics and economy of America and European Countries’. Comment with examples. (UPSC IAS/2020)

  • In news: Diego Garcia Island

    In news: Diego Garcia Island

    Why in the news?

    Indian fishermen from Tamil Nadu, were detained near Diego Garcia in the British Indian Ocean Territory for crossing the maritime boundary.

    About the Diego Garcia Island

    • The Diego Garcia Island is a part of the British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT).
    • It is situated in the Indian Ocean, south of the equator.
    • It is located approximately 1,796 km south of India and 4,723 km east of Africa.
    • It was originally inhabited by the Chagossians (Ilois), descendants of African and Indian laborers brought by French colonists.
    • It became a British colony in 1814 following the Napoleonic Wars.

    Political Significance:

    • It houses a significant US military base, established under a 1966 UK-US agreement.
    • It plays a critical role in global military operations, particularly in the Middle East and Asia-Pacific.
    • It serves as a base for long-range bombers, intelligence-gathering operations, and logistical support.
    • The sovereignty of Diego Garcia is disputed by Mauritius, which claims it as part of its territory.
    • In 2019, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) advised the UK to return the Chagos Archipelago, including Diego Garcia, to Mauritius.
      • The United Nations General Assembly endorsed this ruling.

  • [pib] UN Committee of Experts on Big Data and Data Science for Official Statistics (UN-CEBD)

    Why in the News?

    India has joined the prestigious UN Committee of Experts on Big Data and Data Science for Official Statistics (UN-CEBD).

    About UN-CEBD

    Details
    • Established in 2014 during the 45th session of the UN Statistical Commission.
    • First Chair: Australia.
    • Explores the potential of big data and data science in transforming official statistics.
    • Monitors progress toward Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) using innovative data sources.
    Structural Mandate and Implementation Mandate:

    • Develop global programs for using big data in official statistics.
    • Monitor SDG indicators using advanced data science.
    • Address challenges like cross-border data sharing and ethical concerns.

    Governance Structure:

    • Advisory Board: Strategic oversight and guidance.
    • UN Bureau: Handles operational tasks.

    Implementation Mechanism:

    • Capacity building through training.
    • Promote global collaboration and innovation.
    Powers and Functions
    • Strategic Vision: Integrate big data into national/international statistical systems.
    • Practical Use: Utilize non-traditional data sources like IoT, satellite imagery, and private sector data.
    • Capacity Building: Train statisticians in data science techniques.
    • Global Standards: Develop frameworks for cross-border data sharing and ethical practices.
    • Policy Integration: Advocate for data-driven policymaking.
    Why India Joined?
    • Enhancing Statistical Capabilities: Modernize processes with IoT, satellite imagery, etc.
    • Global Collaboration: Share innovations like the Data Innovation Lab and learn best practices.
    • SDG Monitoring: Leverage big data for robust tracking of SDGs.
    • Showcasing Leadership: Strengthen India’s position in global data governance.
    • Economic and Policy Benefits: Enable evidence-based decisions to address socio-economic challenges.

  • INTERPOL publishes first Silver Notice targeting criminal assets

    Why in the News?

    The International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL) has issued a Silver Notice to trace and recover criminal assets, marking the first expansion of its color-coded notices to specifically target the finances of organized crime networks.

    What is Silver Notice?

    • It is an INTERPOL initiative aimed at tracing, locating, and recovering criminal assets linked to crimes such as fraud, corruption, drug trafficking, and environmental offenses.
    • Objective: It targets assets like properties, vehicles, financial accounts, and businesses that are connected to criminal activities.
    • It was launched in 2023 as part of a pilot phase involving 52 countries, and this phase will run until November 2025.
    • How does it work?
      • Member countries can request INTERPOL to issue a Silver Notice for assistance in gathering information about criminal assets.
      • The Notice is shared globally with all 196 INTERPOL member countries, while Diffusions can be directed to specific countries for more targeted cooperation.
      • All Silver Notices and Diffusions are reviewed by INTERPOL’s General Secretariat to ensure compliance with its rules, including prohibitions on political misuse as outlined in Article 3 of the INTERPOL Constitution.
      • The first-ever Silver Notice was requested by Italy to trace assets linked to a senior mafia member, showcasing its potential to combat organized crime.

    INTERPOL publishes first Silver Notice targeting criminal assets

    About INTERPOL

    Structural Mandate and Implementation
    • Establishment: Founded in 1923 in Vienna, now headquartered in Lyon, France, with 195 member countries.
    • Mandate: Supports cross-border police cooperation, helping agencies combat international crime.
    • India became a member of INTERPOL in June 1956.

    Structural Mandate:

    • Secretary General: Oversees daily operations.
    • General Secretariat (Lyon): Manages global databases and police communication systems.
    • Global Complex for Innovation (Singapore): Research, training, and cybercrime initiatives.
    • Regional Bureaus: Satellite offices worldwide.
    • National Central Bureaus (NCBs): Each member country, such as India’s CBI, serves as its national focal point for INTERPOL.
    • I-24/7 Service: A secure global police communication system enabling real-time sharing of urgent and sensitive information.
    Powers and Functions
    • Data Sharing: Manages 19 police databases on crimes and criminals, accessible in real-time by member countries.
    • Notices and Diffusions: Issues color-coded notices (e.g., Red, Yellow, Blue, Silver) to locate fugitives, missing persons, or criminal assets; not legally binding but widely used by law enforcement.

    Operational Support:
    – Investigative Assistance: Provides forensics, analysis, and fugitive-tracking support.
    – Coordination: Enables law enforcement agencies to handle transnational crime efficiently.