Transnational Crime

Transnational crime is characterized by illegal and illicit actions that have international impact. This form of crime may consist of illegal activities that happen in one country, but the consequences of the activity may be impacted in another country. Transnational crime is often organized in nature. Human trafficking is one of the most common transnational crimes, as is trafficking of other types such as weapons or drugs. Environmental crimes may also be considered transnational, as are terrorist activities. Transnational crimes may also consist of crimes committed against humanity, which includes war-related crimes and torture.

Tracking and resolving transnational crimes is challenging in part because these criminals are often involved in vast and complex networks meant to help carry out the offenses. Additionally, transnational crime organizations are often well-funded and highly-secretive. This makes it that much harder to root out these organizations all the way to the top, since catching those on the lower end of the totem pole within the organization does not guarantee the crime will cease as a result. Transnational crime has increased in recent years, as globalization has taken root and it has become that much easier to communicate on a global scale. This type of crime also thrives because laws and policies vary between different countries.