Eurojust demonstrates key role in improving port security during the World Port Days 2024 in Rotterdam

(IN BRIEF) Eurojust will participate in the 47th annual World Port Days in Rotterdam from 6-8 September 2024. The event, which highlights the importance of European ports such as Rotterdam, will feature Eurojust in the European Pavilion. This space, organised by the Representation of the European Commission in the Netherlands, will showcase EU-funded initiatives. Eurojust’s involvement is significant given the growing threat of organised crime in European ports, particularly drug trafficking. Visitors will be able to learn more about Eurojust’s efforts in the fight against international crime, including a Q&A session with Alexander van Dam, Eurojust’s National Member for the Netherlands.

(PRESS RELEASE) THE HAGUE, 3-Sep-2024 — /EuropaWire/ — The 47th annual World Port Days in Rotterdam, taking place from 6-8 September 2024, will see the active participation of Eurojust, the EU agency responsible for judicial cooperation in criminal matters between Member States. The event, a major attraction for thousands of visitors, will provide a platform for Eurojust to demonstrate its crucial role in enhancing security in Europe’s major ports.

Ports such as Rotterdam, Antwerp and Hamburg serve as crucial gateways to Europe, handling over 90 million containers annually and contributing significantly to economic growth and employment. However, these hubs are increasingly being targeted by criminal networks for illicit activities, including drug trafficking, posing one of the most serious security threats to the continent.

During this year’s event, Eurojust will be featured in the European Pavilion, an exhibition space organised by the Representation of the European Commission in the Netherlands and Kansen voor West. The pavilion will highlight several EU-funded initiatives and agencies active in the Netherlands, including Eurojust, Europol and the European Medicines Agency.

Eurojust’s involvement is particularly timely given the growing concern about the infiltration of European ports by organised crime. In 2023 alone, Eurojust supported 2,500 cross-border drug trafficking cases, contributing to the seizure of €25.6 billion in illicit drugs. As a key member of the European Ports Alliance, Eurojust plays a crucial role in strengthening port security and ensuring that Europe’s gateways remain safe and secure.

Visitors to the European Pavilion will have the opportunity to interact directly with Eurojust representatives and learn more about the agency’s efforts to combat international crime. On Friday morning, Alexander van Dam, the National Member for the Netherlands at Eurojust, will be available to answer questions and provide insights into the agency’s work.

During the World Port Days you can enjoy a varied range of activities, including special guided tours on ships, water spectacles and informative excursions. It is therefore an absolute must for anyone interested in the European maritime and safety sector.