Databases as a means of combating organised crime within the EU

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the use of EU‐wide databases as a means of combating organised crime.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper looks at three specific examples of proposed databases: networking national criminal records; the creation of a European criminal record; and a database for investigations and prosecutions.

Findings

The paper concludes that, while such databases are feasible and useful tools in combating organised crime, until there is progress in harmonising criminal law and procedure they will be resisted by Member States.

Practical implications

EU‐wide databases are feasible and can assist in combating organised crime.

Originality/value

The paper has value for researchers, practitioners and policymakers.

Citation

Stefanou, C. (2010), "Databases as a means of combating organised crime within the EU", Journal of Financial Crime, Vol. 17 No. 1, pp. 100-115. https://doi.org/10.1108/13590791011009392