The 17th meeting of the Joint Parliamentary Scrutiny Group (JPSG) on Europol

Key discussions focused on Europol's evolving digital agenda, the growing importance of artificial intelligence in combating cybercrime, the protection of fundamental rights and data, and the agency's cooperation with Ukraine in light of ongoing security challenges. Particular attention was given to ensuring transparency, proportionality and public trust, while strengthening Europol's operational and analytical capacities.

The meeting included presentations by Ms Catherine DE BOLLE, Europol Executive Director and Mr Ireneusz SIEŇKO, Chair of the Europol Management Board. They highlighted Europol's role within the EU's broader security architecture and outlined the agency's achievement in surpassing operational support targets, alongside a positive assessment of its compliance and efficiency record.

The session on the Future of Europol addressed its evolving mandate, operational capabilities and the role of Member States in countering cross-border crime. Discussions centred on reinforcing Europol's analytical and technological tools, improving cooperation frameworks, and ensuring that its development continues to align with principles of transparency, proportionality and respect for national authorities.

The meeting also included discussions with the European Data Protection Supervisor, Europol's Data Protection Officer, and Europol's Fundamental Rights Officer on Europol's data protection framework and the use of AI in law enforcement. Key topics included progress, remaining challenges and the need to balance innovation with strong fundamental rights safeguards.

The programme featured two scrutiny sessions. One focused on organised environmental crime--such as waste trafficking and illegal wildlife or timber trade--now identified as one of Europol's top concerns. The second examined barriers to lawful law enforcement data access, including end-to-end encryption and fragmented legislation.

The agenda further included a discussion on Europol's cooperation with Ukraine, covering operational support in response to the war, key achievements, current challenges and future priorities. The most notable procedural development was the appointment of ten members to the Consultative Forum on Fundamental Rights of the JPSG.

The 17th Joint Parliamentary Scrutiny Group on Europol saw constructive exchanges between national and European Parliament members and Europol representatives. Participants engaged actively across all sessions, demonstrating strong parliamentary scrutiny and a shared commitment to enhancing Europol's role. The JPSG European Parliament delegation will continue to collaborate with national counterparts to ensure rigorous democratic oversight, accountability and full alignment with EU values.