Organised crime in the European Union

Briefing 06-09-2013

It is impossible to measure accurately the socio-economic cost of crime. However, the estimates available invariably quote very high figures, which lead to reflection in times of financial crisis and austerity. Numerous organised crime groups are active in the EU, often with cross-border reach and multi-ethnic composition. Some of them, having established a strong position in their countries of origin, go on to engage in illicit markets throughout the EU.