INTERPOL, FATF, and UNODC Join Forces to Combat Transnational Crime through Strengthened AML Measures

INTERPOL, the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) have issued a joint call urging countries to bolster their anti-money laundering (AML) measures to effectively combat transnational crime. This call, described as "unprecedented" by FATF, emphasizes the crucial need for countries to target the significant illicit profits generated by transnational organized crime, which are often used to fund terrorism and have negative impacts on vulnerable populations.

The call to action was made during the 33rd UN Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice event held in Vienna. FATF emphasized that implementing tougher AML measures is essential for disrupting organized crime networks and enhancing overall crime prevention efforts.

"FATF's international standards on AML and terrorism financing play a crucial role in combatting transnational crime. By introducing tougher AML measures, countries can more effectively combat and disrupt organized crime networks and enhance the effectiveness of crime prevention efforts," said a spokesperson from FATF.

T. Raja Kumar, President of FATF, stressed the importance of global financial integrity, stating, "Global financial integrity is critical for financial stability, inclusion, and for peace and security. We must seize the initiative and collectively implement asset recovery to cut off the lifeblood of criminal enterprise – their money and their assets."

Jürgen Stock, Secretary General of INTERPOL, highlighted the necessity of depriving criminals of their illicit gains to promote the rule of law and protect vulnerable communities. "Just as criminals will trade any commodity to generate profits, every avenue must be followed to deprive them of these illicit gains. Choking off the illegal revenue streams is essential in promoting rule of law and protecting vulnerable communities. Action across all sectors and at the global level is needed now, and INTERPOL stands ready to provide whatever support necessary," Stock stated.

Ghada Waly, Executive Director of UNODC, emphasized the detrimental impact of money laundering and terrorism financing on global stability. "Money laundering and terrorism financing are fuelling instability, violence, and exploitation worldwide. Safeguarding financial integrity is vital to promoting peace and security," Waly noted.

The organizations also called for accelerated progress on policy reforms and capacity building ahead of the UN 2026 Crime Congress. They stressed the importance of providing greater support to countries struggling to implement effective AML and terrorist financing frameworks.

Overall, the joint call underscores the urgent need for international cooperation and comprehensive measures to combat financial crime and safeguard global financial integrity.

By fLEXI tEAM