2024_UNODC_UNODC Supports Algeria in the Investigation of Financial Crimes to Address the Nexus between Terrorism and Organized Crime

UNODC Supports Algeria in the Investigation of Financial Crimes to Address the Nexus between Terrorism and Organized Crime

Globally, money laundering and terrorist financing represent serious threats to international peace and security. Terrorist financing provides terrorists with the means to plan and carry out terrorist attacks to achieve their goals. In the context of the links between terrorism and organized crime, this money can come from legitimate sources, for example from business profits and charitable organizations, or from illegal activities including trafficking in weapons, drugs or people, or kidnappings.

While the introduction of cryptocurrencies and virtual assets have revolutionized the financial landscape and created significant economic opportunities, their growing exploitation by terrorist groups to fund their operations, activities, and movements presents a serious challenge.

Given the constant adaptability of terrorist groups, proactive measures and steps to prevent and counter the financing of terrorism, especially through the use of cryptocurrencies, are needed.

Against this backdrop, UNODC, in partnership with UNICRI, implemented a national workshop in Algiers on 1-3 October 2024 as part of the project on “Strengthening State’s capacities to address the nexus between terrorism and organized crime in Africa.” This activity aimed at strengthening the capacities, knowledge and practical skills of specialized investigative services to countering the financing of terrorism, in the context of the nexus between terrorism and organized crime.

Over the course of the three-day workshop, 21 participants from Algeria’s criminal justice system and law enforcement agencies deepened their understanding of cryptocurrencies and virtual assets to effectively investigate financial crimes. The workshop highlighted the potential risks and vulnerabilities associated with the exploitation of virtual assets by criminal networks and terrorist groups, particularly in relation to money laundering and the financing of illicit activities.

The activity was funded by the United Nations Peace and Development Trust Fund (UNPDTF) and the Government of Sweden.

United Nations

Office on Drugs and Crime