Financial Crime World

Finland’s War on Financial Crime: New Studies Reveal Need for Multisectoral Approach

Helsinki, Finland - A New Perspective on Organized Crime

A pair of studies conducted by the Police University College has shed light on the alarming extent of organized crime in Finland. The research highlights the need for a more coordinated and data-driven approach to combating financial crime, as well as a more responsible approach to media content.

The Extent of Organized Crime in Finland

According to the studies, an estimated 90-100 active criminal organizations operate in Finland, with approximately 1,000 members involved in various types of crimes, including drug trafficking, human trafficking, and fraud. Most known operators are criminal biker gangs, but this is only a fraction of serious and organized crime.

The Need for a Multisectoral Approach

Researchers Pirjo Jukarainen, Marko Juutinen, and Kari Laitinen warn that the work to combat organized crime in Finland is not yet sufficiently multisectoral and information-based. They highlight the importance of:

  • Data-driven approach: Efficient supervision requires precise advance data to enable screening of targets for inspection.
  • Information exchange: Legislation should be developed to support the administrative authorities’ unprompted exchange of information and linking of register data for analytic purposes.

The Role of Media in Promoting Organized Crime

The researchers emphasize the importance of a more responsible approach to media content, as organized crime operators know how to market and promote a criminal way of life. They recommend:

  • Media education: More media and legality education targeted at young people to protect them from organized crime and its marketing.
  • Responsible media content: Experts are concerned that children and young people in particular take the true crime culture at face value.

Conclusion

The studies were commissioned by the Ministry of Justice and the Ministry of the Interior as part of the renewal of the strategy for combating organized crime. The research highlights the need for a more coordinated and data-driven approach to combating financial crime, as well as a more responsible approach to media content.