Global cooperation in combatting financial crime : an analysis of international anti-money laundering and terrorist financing legislation

Abstract

The aim of this thesis is to analyse the treatment of the crimes of money laundering and terrorist financing under international law, with a focus on the cooperative infrastructures which exist between States and the efforts which have been made since the mid-20th Century to combat financial crimes in this ambit. It considers the historical development of international treaties and codified laws, as well as soft law efforts which have led to the current global approach towards tackling these crimes, in a collaborative movement by States. The implementation of standards through international laws and organisations has led States to develop and maintain domestic laws in conformity with a recognised international principles. This thesis also looks into regional efforts at combatting financial crime, such as those undertaken within the European Union, which have been acknowledged as some of the most widespread and harmonised methods of regulating money laundering and terrorist financing amongst States. Finally, it looks at the future of money laundering efforts, and the challenges faced by the international community going forward, especially in light of developing technologies and more sophisticated money laundering efforts. Amongst these challenges, there are possible ways forward for States and the global community to maintain a high standard in international efforts and regulation, including the potential need for new international efforts to ensure that money laundering and terrorist financing are adequately adjudicated by the international community in the same way that other international crimes are.