On April 28, 2026, leading experts in security innovation, policy, and law enforcement gathered in Brussels for a full-day workshop organized by Community for European Research and Innovation for Security. The event focused on advancing European research and innovative solutions to combat the illicit trafficking of goods across the external borders of the European Union.
Among the featured initiatives, BAG-INTEL was presented by Project Coordinator Henrik Larsen, who outlined the project’s role in strengthening detection, intelligence, and analytical capabilities in the fight against illegal trade flows. His presentation highlighted how BAG-INTEL contributes to improving identification systems and enhancing market intelligence through advanced data-driven approaches.
The CERIS workshop brought together EU-funded projects demonstrating cutting-edge technologies—from big data analytics to non-intrusive detection tools—designed to minimize disruption to legitimate trade while increasing the efficiency of border security operations. BAG-INTEL was positioned within this ecosystem as a key contributor to integrated intelligence solutions supporting customs authorities.
A central component of the workshop was its interactive breakout sessions, where participants explored two critical scenarios: wildlife trafficking and trafficking of intangible assets. These discussions allowed practitioners, innovators, and policymakers to evaluate how research outputs like BAG-INTEL can be translated into operational capabilities.
Throughout the day, participants also examined the broader convergence of illicit trafficking with other forms of organized crime, emphasizing the need for cross-sector collaboration and intelligence sharing. The event concluded with a roundtable discussion and networking reception, fostering further dialogue among stakeholders.
BAG-INTEL’s participation reinforced our consortium’s strategic relevance within the European security research landscape, demonstrating BAG-INTEL solution’s potential to support more effective and coordinated responses to illicit trafficking challenges at the EU’s external borders.