Organized crime in Italy and its impact on organized crime in some European countries

This article presents some Italian criminal organizations that have expanded their activities outside Italy. The factors influencing the shaping of criminal groups are also presented and the history of selected groups of this type is described. The origins of the word mafia were made. Types of organized crime were presented. The directions of emigration of Italian groups were indicated.

Author of this article undertakes an effort to analyze the money laundering process. Starting form outlining the problem, showing historical overview, describing basic definitions and key issues concerning the problem such as: organized crime and drug trafficking, most important socio-economical impacts of the money laundering process that itself will be analyzed together with international legal efforts to fight it showing the most important organizations involved. Last part of the article will concentrate on Polish legal and organizational solutions in this matter.

Mafia and politics – Antagonism or interdependence?

Many researchers of the history of Sicily and the current events on the Island claim that Sicily became enslaved by mafia. However, if one performs a deeper analysis of this land, he may draw a conclusion that Sicily was never free. Starting from the mythical Cyclops, there was no invader who would not be lured by legendary fertile and beautiful piece of land – a bridge between Europe and Africa. Organized crime in Sicily emerged as a resistance against the foreign presence on the island.