Module 7: The United Nations and International White-Collar Crime

Introduction

• Focus on the role of international organizations, specifically the United Nations (UN).
• Examines how the UN functions as a source of law regarding international white-collar crime.

Role of the United Nations

• Security Council:
  • Has authority to make resolutions addressing international white-collar crime.
• General Assembly:
  • Regularly passes resolutions establishing various international white-collar crimes.
  • Mandates governments and international organizations to prevent or prosecute violations.

Areas of Focus

• Financing of Terrorism:
  • UN actively involved in creating frameworks to combat financing efforts.
• Economic Sanctions:
  • Implementing sanctions as a measure to control and prosecute white-collar crimes.

UN Specialized Organizations

• United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC):
  • Based in Vienna.
  • Implements treaties such as the UN Convention against trafficking of prohibited substances.
  • Assists by training officials, particularly in developing countries.
  • Provides resources on its website to identify key contacts for prosecuting crimes.

Learning Objectives

• Understand the broad role of the United Nations in international law.
• Learn how to navigate and utilize UN resolutions and treaties.
• Apply knowledge to strengthen due diligence in businesses or conduct research.
• Aid local or national governments in coordinating with the United Nations.

Conclusion

• This module equips students with the necessary tools and knowledge to engage with the UN's legal frameworks and improve strategies in combating international white-collar crime.