Problems In International Law Enforcement

I would like to discuss the efforts that the United States has made to develop an effective system of international law enforcement, and the difficulties which it has encountered in that process. I will begin with a brief description of the tools which are available and can be employed in international criminal procedure. I will then discuss how these tools have been applied to different types of criminal activity. As I will explain, they have proved highly successful in the areas of narcotics trafficking, organized crime, and money laundering, but have encountered significant problems in the area of terrorism.

These problems and the frustrations they have generated have prompted the United States to attempt methods of self-help, such as seizures and military operations to apprehend terrorists abroad. I will conclude with some observations on the wisdom of such remedies and the prospects for improved cooperation.