The European Criminal Bar Association (ECBA), of which Dr. Balázs Gellér criminal defence counsel is a member, hosts an important professional webinar on November 7, 2025, focusing on current issues related to extradition, the European Arrest Warrant, and Interpol procedures. The discussion centres on a case of particular relevance for defence practitioners.

The case concerns Paul Watson, the founder of Sea Shepherd, who was sought by Japan based on an Interpol Red Notice. However, Greenland (Denmark) refused his extradition in December 2024, citing a lack of proportionality given the nature of the charges and the 14 years that had passed since the alleged acts. The case provides key insights for defence lawyers, especially regarding access to Interpol’s data history, the “reset” of proceedings through the reissuance of arrest warrants, and the application of proportionality in Red Notice assessments.