On July 12, 2024, Brussels hosted the European Ports Alliance Cluster IV workshop, a significant event designed to foster collaboration between diverse stakeholders in the fight against drug trafficking and organized crime. The workshop served as a platform to connect innovators offering cutting-edge technical solutions with public authorities such as police, customs officials, and coast guards, as well as private sector stakeholders like shipping companies, terminal operators, and other entities involved in port security.

The primary goal of the workshop was to bridge the gap between those developing innovative tools and technologies for countering these criminal activities and the organizations that require such solutions to enhance security measures in European ports. By facilitating direct interaction between solution providers and end-users, the event aimed to strengthen cooperation and improve the effectiveness of crime prevention and intervention efforts in the maritime sector.

A wide range of EU-funded projects were presented during the workshop, each showcasing new approaches to tackling organized crime. Among these projects was our own ARIEN Project, which demonstrated its innovative contributions to this vital area. The ARIEN Project, along with other initiatives, highlighted the role of advanced technology in enhancing port security and protecting critical infrastructure from criminal threats. The workshop provided a valuable opportunity for knowledge sharing and collaboration, underscoring the importance of partnerships between public and private sectors in addressing complex security challenges.