Globalisation and Crime in the UK

Globalisation, the increasing interconnectedness of societies worldwide, has profoundly impacted various facets of life, including crime. This essay will analyse two key ways in which globalisation, as highlighted in Item A, influences crime in the UK: by providing new opportunities for transnational organised crime and by facilitating the spread of cybercrime.

Transnational Organised Crime

Item A points to the "increase in trade across national borders" as a key aspect of globalisation. This has inadvertently provided fertile ground for transnational organised crime (TOC) to flourish. As explained by Hobbs and Dunningham in their "glocal" analysis, globalisation has created new opportunities for criminal organisations to exploit the interconnectedness of markets and the relative ease of cross-border movement. For instance, the UK, with its well-developed infrastructure and legal frameworks, becomes a target for the trafficking of goods, particularly drugs and firearms, from less regulated parts of the world.

Furthermore, Glenny's work on the fall of communism and the rise of criminal networks in Eastern Europe demonstrates how global events can create a supply of individuals vulnerable to recruitment by criminal organisations. These individuals may then be trafficked to the UK for exploitation in activities such as forced labour or the sex trade, fuelling further criminal activity within the UK. This highlights how globalisation creates interconnected vulnerabilities that TOC networks readily exploit.

Cybercrime

Item A also mentions "the development of new technologies" as a defining feature of globalisation. While technology has brought numerous benefits, it has also opened up avenues for cybercrime, a form of crime with significant implications for the UK. Castells argues that we live in a "network society" where information flows freely and rapidly across borders. This presents opportunities for criminals to engage in activities like hacking, online fraud, and identity theft, targeting individuals and businesses in the UK from virtually anywhere in the world.

The rise of the dark web, as highlighted by Held et al., further exemplifies the impact of globalisation on crime. This hidden part of the internet allows for the anonymous trade of illegal goods and services, bypassing traditional law enforcement mechanisms and creating new challenges for tackling crime in the UK. The global nature of the internet makes it difficult to police and prosecute offenders, highlighting the need for international cooperation in combating cybercrime.

Conclusion

In conclusion, globalisation, while bringing numerous benefits, has undeniably influenced crime in the UK. By facilitating the operations of transnational organised crime and providing new avenues for cybercrime, the interconnectedness brought about by globalisation presents unique challenges for law enforcement and policymakers. Addressing these challenges effectively requires a multifaceted approach, encompassing international cooperation, technological adaptation, and a deeper understanding of the evolving nature of crime in a globalised world.