NCJ Number
208446
Date Published
2003
Length
36 pages
Annotation
This report presents a comprehensive review and assessment of the threat posed by transnational organized crime in the European Union.
Abstract
The impact of organized crime (OC) is felt by all states and by everyone in the European Union (EU). OC causes tremendous damage to societies and economies. OC is becoming increasingly transnational with extensive networks found across the EU. The intent of this report is to obtain and disseminate information about OC in the EU with a focus on its cross-border manifestations. It assists law enforcement decisionmakers to set priorities and allocate resources, as well as inform law enforcement officers of the specific details of OC. The report begins by presenting overall patterns and general trends in OC. It continues with a discussion on factors conducive to OC in the EU, such as political changes, economic factors, social dimension, and technology. The threat from OC is examined with certain factors playing a major role in determining which OC groups pose the greatest threat. Numerous OC groups known to be operating in or from the EU are outlined. Even though there have been no major changes in the types of crime that affect the EU, a significant trend in relation to today’s OC networks is the move away from single types of crime to diversification into multi-crime activities, such as drug trafficking and illegal immigration. The report concludes with recommendations in the areas of policy, legislation, operationally relevant suggestions, and intelligence. Appendix