Number: RL32190
Title: Transnational Organized Crime: U.S. Policy, Programs, and Related Issues
Authors: Tarana Zaheed, Foreign Affairs, Defense, and Trade Division 
Abstract: Transnational organized crime threatens American communities, businesses and financial institutions.1 In a larger sense, it is also seen as endangering the security of the United States and other nations, undermining the rule of law, corrupting governments, impeding sustainable development, and jeopardizing local and regional stability by possibly providing arms and supports for terrorists and insurgents. This report looks at the extent of the threat posed by transnational crime and U.S. efforts to respond to this threat. It discusses key federal programs of law enforcement and intelligence agencies designed to monitor, investigate and prosecute transnational organized crime. It also addresses programs of bilateral and multilateral law enforcement cooperation with foreign governmental institutions. Finally, the report suggests some policy concerns for Congress, which has continued to give considerable attention to U.S. national security dimension of the threat posed by transnational organized crime. While giving priority to the war on terrorism, Congress has supported the continuing fight against drugs, trafficking in persons, intellectual property violations, money laundering, and other crimes that threaten the day to day activities of American citizens and businesses.
Pages: 16
Date: Updated January 8, 2004