The corrupt side of world trade

Gangsters, mobsters, organised crime the Mafia. Call them what you will but there is no denying their existence. According to a report in America, major criminal organisations are now operating in much the same manner as global enterprises; shifting money here, moving assets there, buying in Asia, selling in Europe. It is one of the ironies of the early 21st century that at a time of heightened border security and fear of terror attack, gangs have been able to slip under the radar. But the threats they pose to countries and societies are just as real as any terror cell intent on creating mayhem.

In certain parts of the world, they have their tentacles in most major industries and their presence is like a cancer choking off the oxygen supply of accountability and fairness.

Dealing with the menace they represent will have to be done in a similar way to dealing with the threat of international terror. Governments must set up and co-ordinate activities and position resources to target the international gangs. But before any of this can be done or done better it is important to acknowledge their presence and the very real threat they represent.