International Co-operation
Extradition
The Working Group on extradition aims to exchange information on extradition cases to assist practitioners. Many countries face similar challenges, and referring to decisions from other member states can strengthen cases. This includes decisions from the ECJ and ECHR.
Regular online meetings are held to discuss interesting cases, often with members who were involved in the case, providing unique insights. Participants learn about extradition and why certain jurisdictions refuse it, using case law in similar situations.
The group also focuses on improving international cooperation and understanding legal frameworks across different jurisdictions. Members include experienced lawyers who share their expertise, while some join to learn and gain valuable insights.
Coordinator: Heiko Ahlbrecht
Heiko Ahlbrecht, based in Dusseldorf, is a German criminal defence lawyer in the field of white-collar-crime including tax evasion cases. He is representing individuals and corporates in national and international cases.
Coordinator: Hans Van de Wal
Hans Van de Wal is a practicing Belgian lawyer since 2007.
He has extensive experience with EAW cases as well as extradition cases.
Contact: international.cooperation.wg@ecba.org
If you are an ECBA member interested in joining a working group, please email us, providing a brief outline of your reasons for wanting to join.
Latest Posts
Mutual Legal Assistance WG Webinars
The purpose of the MLA working group webinars is to increase knowledge and awareness amongst defence practitioners about the various MLA instruments as well as procedural and other ECHR safeguards in that context.
Engaging with INTERPOL on Policy aspects
The Interpol WG seeks to engage with Interpol on policy, addressing governing shortcomings. We drive dialogue on transparency, fairness, and human rights safeguards, promoting continued improvement in its practices.
ECBA & LATR Submit Joint Response to INTERPOL’s CCF Statute Amendments
The ECBA and Lawyers Against Transnational Repression have submitted a joint response to INTERPOL’s Committee on the Processing of Data (CPD) regarding proposed amendments to the CCF Statute.
ECBA & LATR Joint Submission: Reforming INTERPOL’s Oversight – March 2026
The ECBA and Lawyers Against Transnational Repression (LATR) have submitted a joint response to INTERPOL’s Committee on the Processing of Data (CPD) regarding proposed amendments to the CCF Statute.
Safeguarding INTERPOL’s Systems: Recommendations for Reform – February 2026
The ECBA and Lawyers Against Transnational Repression (LATR) have submitted a joint response to INTERPOL’s Committee on the Processing of Data (CPD) regarding proposed amendments to the CCF Statute.
ECBA Assurance Project
States offer prison assurances to obtain surrender/extradition. These follow findings of incompliant detention conditions. We share these and seek to ensure compliance therewith.
EAW Handbook update and launch events
The EAW Handbook helps defence lawyers obtain the best outcome for clients when challenging EAWs in either the issuing or executing State.
Extradition WG monthly Webinars
Lawyers practicing in EAW and extradition cases exchange experiences in domestic cases which can be of interest for other jurisdictions.
ECBA Response to INTERPOL CPD Call for Papers – October 2025
The European Criminal Bar Association (ECBA) submitted a response to the Committee on the Processing of Data (CPD)’s call for contributions in relation to...
ECBA Response to Interpol CPD Call for Papers – April 2025
The European Criminal Bar Association (ECBA) has submitted a response to the Committee on the Processing of Data (CPD) in relation to proposed amendments...
Current and future initiatives
The ECBA International Co-operation working group is engaged in a variety of current and future initiatives, ranging from legislative monitoring to practical projects supporting defence rights across Europe. Members are warmly invited to join specific projects within these groups, contributing their expertise and shaping the outcomes together.
Mutual Legal Assistance WG Webinars
The purpose of the MLA working group webinars is to increase knowledge and awareness amongst defence practitioners about the various MLA instruments as well as procedural and other ECHR safeguards in that context.
Engaging with INTERPOL on Policy aspects
The Interpol WG seeks to engage with Interpol on policy, addressing governing shortcomings. We drive dialogue on transparency, fairness, and human rights safeguards, promoting continued improvement in its practices.
ECBA Assurance Project
States offer prison assurances to obtain surrender/extradition. These follow findings of incompliant detention conditions. We share these and seek to ensure compliance therewith.
EAW Handbook update and launch events
The EAW Handbook helps defence lawyers obtain the best outcome for clients when challenging EAWs in either the issuing or executing State.
Extradition WG monthly Webinars
Lawyers practicing in EAW and extradition cases exchange experiences in domestic cases which can be of interest for other jurisdictions.