Page 14 - WBG Dec 2025

FEATURE

IKD – Harmonising the Highest Standards Since 1964

A NEW CHAPTER FOR THE IKD:

STRENGTHENING GLOBAL

PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS IN

INVESTIGATION

By Mike LaCorte, Secretary General, Internationale Kommission der Detektiv-Verbände (IKD)

At the recent IKD General Congress in Bucharest, I had Its core objectives are:
the privilege of being elected Secretary General of the • Professionalisation of the investigative industry worldwide
Internationale Kommission der Detektiv-Verbände (IKD), • Harmonisation of ethical and regulatory standards
succeeding a figure whose impact on our profession • Support for associations where possible
cannot be overstated: Mr. Tony Imossi. • Representation of the sector in governmental and international
forums
Tony has served the IKD with dedication and integrity for • Promotion of professional collaboration between national bodies
21 years, guiding it through legislative challenges,
political complexities, and the evolving demands of our Where individual investigators work on cases, the IKD works on structure,
industry. His contributions have helped shape the global legitimacy and international recognition. In a world where cross-border
conversation on regulation, ethics, and professional collaboration is increasingly the norm, the IKD is now more relevant
standards. I am deeply aware that I am stepping into than at any other time in its history.
very large shoes. I am grateful that Tony will continue to
serve on the IKD Board as Treasurer, offering invaluable The IKD and WAD: Complementary Roles
continuity and experience as we move forward. The World Association of Detectives (WAD) connects individual
investigators and firms globally, strengthening professional relationships
I would also like to recognise Mr. Georg Hirtl, who served and enabling cross-border work.
as Vice Secretary General alongside Tony throughout this
period. For 21 years, they worked as a seamless two-man The IKD supports the associations investigators belong to. Together,
leadership team; committed, steady, and highly respected these two institutions form the backbone of professional private
across continents. Their legacy is one of diplomacy, investigation worldwide.
collaboration, and unwavering commitment to the IKD.
What Comes Next for the IKD?
As we enter this new era, I am pleased to confirm the Our priorities for the next term include:
appointment of Mr. Alex Auslander, current 3rd Vice
President of the World Association of Detectives (WAD), as 1. Strengthen Collaboration Across Professional Associations
Vice Secretary General of the IKD. Alex brings exceptional Sharing expertise, training, policies and best practices builds sector
perspective and international insight, and I look forward stability.
to working closely with him to expand the IKD’s influence 2. Support Countries Seeking Professional Recognition or
and strengthen cross-association cooperation. regulatory Codes of Conduct. Many jurisdictions are now
evaluating regulation.
What is the IKD and Why Does It Matter? 3. Promote and Maintain High Ethical Standards
The Internationale Kommission der Detektiv-Verbände IKD credibility rests on public trust and professional transparency.
(IKD) is the umbrella organisation for the private 4. Deepen Relationships Across Associations
investigation profession globally. Each member Common Minimum Standards, structured knowledge exchange.
association is represented by an IKD Delegate, meaning 5. Continue the Legacy of Measured, Respectful Diplomacy
the IKD is not a commercial network or referral group, but Progress must be built through cooperation, not confrontation, a
a policy, raising standards, and advocacy body. foundation Tony and George set firmly in place.

12 W.A.D Beyond Global