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EU Urged to Strengthen Freezing and Confiscation Measures Against Crime

The Netherlands has called on the European Union to take a more comprehensive approach to freezing and confiscating assets linked to criminal activity. In a non-paper presented to EU authorities, the Dutch government emphasized that operational cooperation is key to achieving actual results in the fight against crime.

Improving Operational Cooperation

To enhance operational cooperation, the Netherlands suggested setting up a digital platform for operational actors containing a toolbox on how to start freezing and confiscation procedures in another Member State. Additionally, the establishment of central registries of frozen assets at member states’ level and an EU registry on cross-border freezing orders could improve operational cooperation.

Strengthening Judicial Cooperation

The Netherlands also urged the EU to strengthen judicial cooperation among Asset Recovery Offices (AROs), which are responsible for freezing and confiscating assets linked to criminal activity. To achieve this, it recommended that AROs be fully implemented in all member states and work coherently together.

Efficient Management of Frozen and Confiscated Property

The Dutch government stressed the importance of correct and efficient management of frozen and confiscated property. It suggested encouraging the establishment of specialized Asset Management Offices (AMOs) in each member state to handle the swift disposal or sale of seized assets.

Social Reuse of Proceeds and Instrumentalities of Crime

The Netherlands drew attention to the need for social reuse of proceeds and instrumentalities of crime, which can be an effective tool to strengthen social cohesion policies and counter organized crime. To achieve this, it proposed facilitating the exchange of good practices and national legislative initiatives relating to the implementation of Article 10.3 of Directive 2014/42/EU via a network or platform.

Improved Cooperation with Virtual Asset Providers

In addition, the Dutch government emphasized the need for improved cooperation between member states and providers of virtual assets in order to limit their use for illicit purposes. It suggested that public-private partnerships be established to achieve this goal.

Strengthening Legal Framework for Confiscating Virtual Assets

The Netherlands also called on the EU to improve its effectiveness in countering criminals’ use of virtual assets for illicit purposes. To achieve this, it proposed strengthening the legal framework for confiscating virtual assets and allowing national agencies to swiftly take action when suspicious transactions are registered.

Conclusion

Overall, the Dutch government’s proposals aim to enhance cooperation among member states and improve the efficiency and effectiveness of EU measures against crime.