New legal framework for Europol due to security challenges: Maltese minister  

The security challenges Europe faces today have led to a new legal framework for the EU's law enforcement agency Europol, said Maltese Home Affairs and National Security Minister Carmelo Abela on Monday, at Europol's Management Board meeting.

Through new powers conveyed to it, Europol can act as an information hub, providing data exchange measures, said Abela.

It can also safeguard the protection of privacy and fundamental rights and freedoms of EU citizens, he added.

Large-scale criminal and terrorist networks pose a significant threat to the internal security of the Union, and to the safety and livelihood of European citizens, Abela said.

Security threats are no longer contained by geographical borders, and a number of disturbing incidents have taken place that span across Member States, he added.

Europol is now better equipped to support Member States in Union-wide crime prevention, analyses and investigations ensuring better effectiveness. Endit