1. Money obtained by criminal means is said to be “laundered” when it is channeled through the legitimate financial system in such a way as to prevent it being traced back to criminal activity. Compare money laundering via the financial system (i.e., banks) and money laundering via other systems, including trade, informal agencies (hawala), and cyberspace.
What are, from the perspective of a money launderer, opportunities and risks of each specific system? Also, as financial reporting requirements have become more stringently enforced, and with the development of required Suspicious Transaction Reporting (“STR”), what methods criminals often utilize to launder their illicit funds?
2. One of the most effective ways to stop human trafficking is to legalize prostitution. Elaborate, provide examples.
3. The role of the United Nations in promoting effective crime control has not been demonstrated. What do you think about this?
4. What are some unwanted outcomes of hardline policies on the evolution of organized crime and gangs in the Latin American region?
For example, what are your views on the “balloon effect” and the “cockroach” effect policies in Latin America? Are you in favor of tough on crime/zero tolerance policies when it comes to drug trafficking?
5. One strategy for dealing with drug trafficking has yet to be fully tested: universal legalization.
Do you think that Universal legalization of all drugs would attack the illicit drug market head-on, destroying the profit incentive for drug traffickers and placing control of the industry in the hands of national governments? What are your thoughts on this? What evidence is there to support your argument?
