Preface
Transnational organised crime (TOC) is a crucial issue in many Council of Europe
member states as it represents a major threat to the rule of law with serious
consequences for its victims, the economy and social development. According to
some studies, approximately 3 600 international organised criminal groups are active
in Europe. The Council of Europe, as the leading organisation dealing with the
protection of democracy, human rights and the rule of law, is committed to playing a
key role in the fight against TOC. Prepared at the request of the Committee of
Ministers, this White Paper establishes areas in which the Council of Europe could
contribute to fighting TOC and identifies specific tasks that could be carried out better
or more efficiently by the Organisation.
How are special investigative techniques being used? How is remote computer
access used? What is the reality of cross-border witness relocation? Is the lack of
mutual trust a real problem among Council of Europe member states? The White
Paper includes a list of recommendations aimed at defining which measures should
be applied in the following five key areas: special investigative techniques, witness
protection, co-operation with the private sector, recovery of assets, enhancing
international co-operation and the widening of networks