Thinking and Working Politically to Tackle Illicit Financial Flows and Serious and Organised Crime

By openly sharing knowledge, we have established ourselves as leaders who turn ideas into action and deliver tangible results. Illicit economies and the organised criminal groups behind them threaten national security, reduce government revenues, and hinder economic growth and foreign investment.

These illegal networks also fund transnational gangs through the laundering of proceeds from drug and human trafficking, making streets in the United Kingdom, the United States, and other countries unsafe. Therefore, investing in combating illicit finance is crucial to protect donor countries from these threats.

The Role of Political Economy Analysis

Political economy analysis (PEA) and the approach known as "thinking and working politically" (TWP) are key tools in donor programs. This methodology examines how power and resources are distributed among social actors and their motivations to either support or oppose reforms.

Lessons from the TIFF Project

The Tackling Illicit Financial Flows (TIFF) project, funded by the U.K., targets illicit finance and organised crime in Central and South America. It offers three important lessons that highlight the need for political thinking and working to achieve lasting change.

"Fighting serious and organised crime requires understanding power and resources."

Addressing these complex challenges effectively demands not only technical solutions but also a keen insight into political dynamics.

Author's summary: Understanding and addressing illicit financial flows and organised crime require political analysis and strategic action to create sustainable reform and protect communities.

DAI Blogs — 2025-11-06