The government's signing of an Europol Agreement significant reflects shared principles of democracy, the rule of law, and respect for human rights, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern says.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern pose for media after signing an Agreement on the exchange of personal data between Europol and New Zealand at EU headquarters in Brussels. Photo: AFP
The European Union Agency for Law Enforcement Cooperation is the law enforcement agency of the European Union (EU) that handles criminal intelligence and combats international organised crime and terrorism through cooperation between EU member states.
Ardern said it was significant milestone for the relationship between New Zealand and the EU after attending a signature ceremony in Brussels. It formed part of her European visit, where she also signed a historic trade deal between the economic bloc and New Zealand.
"This Agreement will promote and lead to greater collaboration between New Zealand and EU law enforcement agencies," Ardern said.
"It is also a strong symbol of our shared strong commitment to privacy and seeing justice done for the victims of crime.
"The Agreement reinforces New Zealand's strong data protection framework and means New Zealand will have access to more information to disrupt and respond to the victims of serious crimes and terrorism.
Ardern said it contained robust processes for information transfer, with ongoing privacy and data protection in New Zealand and in the EU.
Police Minister Chris Hipkins said the information that Europol could provide access to would assist New Zealand Police and their law enforcement partners.
"This information will help disrupt and respond to transnational organised crime, drug trafficking, money laundering, child sexual exploitation, cybercrime, violent extremism, and terrorism.
"These are some of the most serious crimes affecting New Zealand victims and enhancing law enforcement's ability to respond will improve outcomes for victims and increase overall public safety.
"
