NCJ Number
161892
Journal
Transnational Organized Crime Volume: 1 Issue: 3 Dated: special issue (Autumn 1995) Pages: 80-107
Editor(s)
P Williams,
E U Savona
Date Published
1995
Length
28 pages
Annotation
The extent of international cooperation in response to transnational crime has increased significantly during the past 20 years, but many gaps in cooperation remain that can be exploited by criminals.
Abstract
Since organized crime crosses national borders and has become a transnational phenomenon, the response to it should also be transnational if it is to be effective. Major forms of international cooperation that have already been developed are identified, and ways of furthering cooperative strategies and mechanisms are suggested. The focus is on arrangements at the operational level rather than at the policy level. The rationale for cooperation is defined and shown to be both compelling and multifaceted, and certain principles and types of cooperation are examined. Consideration is paid to informal modes of cooperation such as personnel and information exchanges, various types of assistance in the investigation and prosecution of transnational organized crime, and formal modes of cooperation such as mutual assistance. The need for major initiatives at the political level to generate awareness of the threat posed by organized crime and the sustained cooperation necessary to counter it are emphasized. Factors that inhibit and enhance international cooperation are noted, as well as specific ways to strengthen international cooperation. 51 notes