Changes from report parliamentary committee draft to plenary report

Transnational organized crime and terrorism are inherently cross-border phenomena. Criminal networks involved in drug trafficking, human trafficking, arms smuggling and money laundering often operate globally, leveraging legal and jurisdictional gaps to evade detection and prosecution. In this context Latin America being the main cocaine cultivation and production region plays a special role. Its ports are often starting points for onward transport to the European Union. It is also a source of people trafficked for sexual and, to a lesser extent, labour exploitation, and of irregular migrants smuggled by air to the EU.

Increased operational cooperation and the sharing of relevant information between Europol and Ecuador would be important in countering serious offences in many crime areas of common interest and thus ensuring better safety for our societies. This cooperation between Europol and Ecuador already exists in the form of a working arrangement signed in October 2023. There has also been the deployment of an Ecuadorian liaison officer to Europol. However, without the possibility of exchange of personal data, it is not an effective tool in fighting transnational criminal networks. This type of increased operational cooperation and the sharing of relevant information between Europol and Ecuador is important in countering serious offences in many crime areas of common interest.

The Agreement between the EU and Ecuador on cooperation between Europol and the Ecuadorian authorities will provide this essential element for our law enforcement authorities, It will allow for personal data exchange which is crucial, when dealing with criminals. But it will also provide general data protection principles, categories of personal data, the rules for automated processing and onward transfers of personal data. At the same time it will also contain safeguards such as on the right of access, and right to rectification, erasure and restriction. EDPS concluded positively that the agreement contains the adequate safeguards with respect to the protection of privacy and fundamental rights and freedoms of individuals.

Cooperation between Europol and Ecuadorian competent authorities is indispensable in addressing serious crime and terrorism. By facilitating intelligence sharing, strengthening institutional capacity, harmonizing legal frameworks, and enabling coordinated operations, this partnership enhances security in Europe, Latin America, and beyond. Such cooperation underscores the principle that in a globalized world, collective action is not just beneficial—it is essential to maintaining peace and stability.