To tackle the most pressing challenges in combating the falsification of medical products, the MEDICRIME Committee decides to set up dedicated Working Groups. These collaborative teams bring together representatives from States Parties and subject-matter experts to undertake focused tasks. By developing practical tools and sharing key intelligence, these working groups are instrumental in enhancing international cooperation. Their work directly supports the effective prevention, detection and prosecution of this serious crime, considerably supporting the work of the MEDICRIME Committee. Explore the details, mandates, and outputs of each group below.

Working Group on unauthorised removal, including theft, from the supply chain of medical products (WG-URSC)

The WG-URSC has been tasked with examining unauthorised removal, including theft, of medical products from the legal supply chain. The working group will prepare an analytical report to identify and counter vulnerabilities exploited by organised crime. This will include examining how weak governance in the medical supply chain, combined with gaps in criminal justice systems and low risks of detection, creates favourable conditions for criminal activity. The group will investigate trends such as the diversion and theft of medicines, assess available legal and operational tools, including the MEDICRIME and Palermo Conventions, and explore ways to enhance international cooperation, including a 24/7 network. This work aims to support States in addressing the risks and impacts associated with such offences more effectively under the MEDICRIME Convention

Terms of reference

1st meeting (22 October 2025, Paris, France) 

Information meeting for French-speaking countries on the Working Group (21 January 2026, online)

Working Group on the 24/7 Network

1st meeting (16 December 2021, online):


2nd meeting (20 February 2024, online):


3rd meeting (4-5 July 2024, Lisbon, Portugal):