On January 16, 2024, European Commissioner for Democracy, Justice, and the Rule of Law, Michael McGrath, visited Eurojust’s headquarters in The Hague to mark the beginning of a pivotal collaboration between the European Commission and Eurojust. During his visit, McGrath was warmly received by Eurojust President Michael Schmid and Vice-Presidents Margarita Šniutytė-Daugėlienė and José de la Mata Amaya, who provided an in-depth overview of how Eurojust plays a critical role in supporting authorities both within Europe and globally in tackling cross-border criminal activities.

Strengthening International Judicial Cooperation

Eurojust is a vital organization in the global fight against transnational crime. Through its work, the agency helps prosecutors exchange vital information, formulate effective prosecutorial strategies, and utilize judicial cooperation tools. The agency’s involvement in joint actions has made it possible to streamline international legal cooperation, especially in intricate and cross-border criminal cases. In 2024 alone, Eurojust supported more than 12,000 criminal investigations, resulting in the seizure of over EUR 1 billion and the arrest of more than 1,000 individuals.

A Unified Approach to Combatting Crime

Commissioner McGrath expressed his appreciation for Eurojust’s role in ensuring justice across borders, emphasizing that the organization embodies the collective effort needed to combat increasingly sophisticated criminal networks. He noted, “Eurojust’s collaboration with various jurisdictions is crucial to tackling evolving threats. Together, we can build safer, more secure societies.”

Global Partnerships for Enhanced Security

McGrath’s visit also highlighted Eurojust’s global reach, showcasing its collaboration with over 70 jurisdictions through a network of Contact Points, working arrangements, and liaison prosecutors stationed at Eurojust. This system enables prosecutors to collaborate across borders, ensuring that crucial information is shared and investigations can progress unhindered by geographic or legal barriers.

Tackling Complex Criminal Networks

Eurojust has launched several networks, such as the Genocide Network and the European Judicial Cybercrime Network (EJCN), designed to enhance the capacity of specialized prosecutors to engage in cross-border investigations. In addition, the recently formed European Judicial Organised Crime Network (EJOCN) addresses a broad range of criminal activities, from organized crime to migrant smuggling. This strategic approach helps address the changing nature of criminal networks, which are increasingly agile in adapting to new challenges.

Holding Russia Accountable for War Crimes in Ukraine

The Commissioner’s visit concluded with a presentation on Eurojust’s ongoing efforts to support investigations into Russian war crimes committed in Ukraine. Since Russia’s invasion in 2022, Eurojust has been instrumental in collaborating with the European Commission and other partners to gather evidence, provide expertise, and guide the legal process. The Core International Crimes Evidence Database (CICED) has already collected over 3,000 pieces of evidence from 16 countries, helping bolster national investigations in Ukraine and surrounding nations.

President Schmid emphasized that the challenges ahead, such as drug-related organized crime and the prosecution of war crimes, require a united approach. He stressed that with Commissioner McGrath’s support, Eurojust aims to continue strengthening its role as a key partner in ensuring the safety and security of European citizens.

This collaborative effort between Eurojust and the European Commission is a testament to the power of international cooperation in the fight against transnational crime. Through their work, both organizations are committed to building a safer and more secure Europe, working tirelessly to ensure that justice knows no boundaries.