Interpol and the OSCE organize a seminar on combating trafficking in cultural heritage in Montenegro.

On November 6 and 7, 2019, INTERPOL held its second awareness-raising and basic training course on its systems in Podgorica. With the support of the OSCE Mission to Montenegro, INTERPOL focused on what national law enforcement agencies should do to access INTERPOL investigations in a co-ordinated effort to combat illicit trafficking in cultural heritage.

Event supported by the Slovak OSCE Chairmanship

Continuation of a joint project implemented in close co-operation with the Border Management Directorate and the OSCE Security Directorate of the Transnational Threats Unit. The event was attended by 35 participants, including representatives of the Police Directorate, Customs Administration, National Security Agency, Ministry of Culture, National Museum, Museums and Galleries of Podgorica, Montenegrin National Commission for UNESCO, Ministry of Justice and Prosecutor's Office.

The course is a continuation of the previous event

On supporting museums in creating a national database of cultural artifacts. Corrado Catesi, Interpol's coordinator for the Works of Art Division, said, "Cultural heritage has been targeted by criminals in the region.

We at Interpol not only share our international experience with you, but also learn from your experience."

Head of the OSCE Mission to Montenegro Maris Davier

Noted that the event aimed to strengthen law enforcement services in the fight against illicit trafficking in cultural heritage and to apply INTERPOL methods and practices to combat this transnational threat in cooperation with relevant authorities, international organizations, the private sector and educational institutions.

Slovak Ambassador to Montenegro Roman Chloben

Speaking on behalf of the OSCE Chairmanship, said that the OSCE is taking measures to strengthen efforts to prevent and counter terrorism, including countering the financing of terrorists, which includes archaeological, historical, cultural, rare scientific and religious items.

Selma Mehovic, Coordinator of International Police Cooperation at the Police Directorate

Stated that, given the transnational nature of the illicit trade in works of art and archaeological finds, Montenegro actively cooperates with other countries in the search for cultural property, whether the thefts occurred in Montenegro or outside Montenegro.

Florian Kreis of the OSCE Transnational Threats Unit

He stated that almost every country, especially Montenegro, with its rich history, is either a source, a transit, or a destination country. "Be vigilant," said Kreysa.

Nikola Sharanoch, General Director of the Department for International Judicial Cooperation and Projects at the Ministry of Justice

He stated that it is necessary to strengthen the tools for supporting the prosecution of such crimes, as well as preventive measures. "The Council of Europe Convention on Crimes Related to Cultural Heritage requires the establishment of databases on cultural heritage, the introduction of an import and export control system, precautionary measures for dealers and auction houses, and other organizations involved in the trade of cultural heritage, as well as the obligation to keep records of transactions. These records should be accessible to competent authorities in accordance with national legislation," said Sharanoich.