Organized Crime in Europe: Conceptions and Realities

Abstract

This essay and review attempts to provide an overview of the situation of organized crime in Europe, drawing on official and academic sources. The available information is put in perspective using a classificatory scheme which distinguishes three basic dimensions: activities, associational structures, and systemic conditions. Compared to other assessments of organized crime, a more differentiated view is advocated. Cautious inferences are drawn on the social relevance of particular types of phenomena. It is argued that the greatest threat posed by organized crime does not emanate from the potential of criminal groups in and by themselves but from the willingness of power elites to enter into alliances with criminal elements.