GLITSS

Social Re-Use Of Confiscated Assets As A Legal Response Against Illicit Trade: Issues And Perspectives For European Criminal Justice
2023-09-25 09:00 - 17:00 UTC | Univeristy of Groningen
The preventive and restorative goals of social re-use need to be analysed both ‘in the books’ and ‘in action’, in order to discover how transnational confiscation procedures in the EU can be streamlined as a fit socio-legal response against illicit trades. The overarching question to address is if, how, and to what extent social re-use of confiscated assets can be improved as a ‘doubly constructive’ means, helping both to prevent illicit trade practices and to boost economic and social development in target communities

Wildlife Trade in the EU
2023-10-02 - 2023-10-04 | University of Lisbon
Getting to know EU wildlife trade, October 2, 2023,
How to change EU wildlife trade, October 3, 2023
Writing proposal and paper, October 4, 2023
This workshop will identify and propose changes in EU legislation regarding wildlife traffic. The workshop will discuss gaps in EU legislation concerning the import of wildlife and discuss possible ways to cover such gaps in EU legislation. In the end, the participants will collaborate on an opinion paper on the subject to be submitted to a high-impact journal.

Sanction Evasion
2023-10-06 | University of Luxembourg
Sanctions evasion has become an increasingly significant global issue, posing challenges for governments, international organizations, and businesses alike. The workshop will provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of sanctions evasion, including its underlying causes, typologies, evolving trends, and key actors Involved. It will explore the role of the private sector (e.g., financial institutions) in detecting and preventing sanctions evasion; discuss strategies for enhancing trade controls to mitigate the risk of sanctions evasion, as well as raise awareness about the importance of compliance with sanctions regimes and explore effective risk management techniques to mitigate the risk of involvement in sanctions evasion.

Sustainability Factors Shaping Port Security: A Case Study of Baltic Ports
2023-11-21 13:00 - 15:00
WG 3 – 1. Webinar: Sustainability Factors Shaping Port Security: A Case Study of Baltic Ports
Date: 21 November – 13:00 CET
Contact:

stefano.caneppele@unil.ch
jaroslav.dvorak@ku.lt

Presenters:

Prof. dr. Jaroslav Dvorak, (Klaipėda University)
Assoc. prof. dr. Valentina Burkšienė (Klaipėda University)

Moderator: Stefano Caneppele, University of Lausanne
Zoom invitiation:
GLITSS is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.
Topic: Webinar: Sustainability Factors Shaping Port Security: A Case Study of Baltic Ports
Time: Nov 21, 2023 01:00 PM Amsterdam, Berlin, Rome, Stockholm, Vienna
Join Zoom Meeting
https://zoom.us/j/95776943752?pwd=[REDACTED]
Meeting ID: 957 7694 3752
Passcode: [REDACTED]
Abstract:
Join Our Webinar: “Sustainability Factors Shaping Port Security: A Baltic Case Study”
? Explore how sustainability provisions play a pivotal role in influencing port security across the Baltic region. In this insightful webinar, we delve into a comprehensive case study, focusing on the Baltic countries, to uncover the dynamic relationship between sustainability practices and port security.
? Key Takeaways:
Gain valuable insights into the unique challenges and opportunities faced by Baltic ports.
Understand the pivotal role of sustainability in driving demand for enhanced security measures.
Discover how sustainable practices can bolster port security across economic, social, and environmental dimensions.
? Why Attend?
The Baltic ports represent economies of smaller nations, making this research particularly pertinent for understanding the intricacies of their development. By attending, you’ll gain access to consolidated knowledge and invaluable research findings that can inform future endeavors in this domain.
?️ Ensuring Economic Security:
Learn how stricter sustainability requirements serve as a powerful motivator for elevating port security measures. Discover how sustainable practices contribute to a more secure and resilient port environment.
? Collaboration for Progress: Explore the importance of partnerships between ports and higher education institutions. Discover how integrating sustainability education into port strategies is crucial for long-term growth and security.
?️ Date: 21.11.2023
⏰ Time: 13:00 CET
??‍?Link: https://zoom.us/j/95776943752?pwd=[REDACTED]
Don’t miss out on this opportunity to delve into the nexus of sustainability and port security.

GLITSS Webinar: Market Trends of Illegal Tobacco Products and Modern Alternative Tobacco Products
2023-12-11 13:00 - 15:00
Date: 11th of December 2023, 13:00 CET (online)
Presenters: Ms. Jurušs and Mr. Plamadeala
Moderator: Prof. Stefano Caneppele
Zoom registration link: https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJYsc-GurTksGdTQg9UgJtK0Dpk7L7bM9G2f
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
About the Webinar
The webinar will cover the topics of the illegal cigarette market using social media, as well as trends in the market of alternative tobacco products (e-cigarettes, vapes, heated tobacco).
As the smuggling of cigarettes on social media poses a big problem for society, several strategies for addressing this issue will be elaborated on from an intelligence, technological and psychological perspective by Constantin Plamadeala.
In the second part, Maris Juruss will address risks associated with the growth of the illegal market of alternative tobacco products, as well as illegal cross-border trade in the single market of the European Union, given that the excise tax for these new products is still not harmonised in the EU.

Enhancing Anti-Money Laundering Measures in Banking Through Advanced Biometric Technologies
2024-01-30 15:00 - 17:00
Date: 30 January – 15:00 CET
Presenters: Marius Laurinaitis (Mykolas Romeris University)
Moderator: George Azzopardi, University of Groningen
Zoom registration link: https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJYqceqtqTwtE9BVZzngk-UAru-H2RWUMz1w
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
About the Webinar
The webinar will cover the topic of “Enhancing Anti-Money Laundering Measures in Banking Through Advanced Biometric Technologies” through the integration of advanced biometric technologies into the banking sector’s anti-money laundering (AML) efforts.
Biometric technologies such as fingerprint scanning, facial recognition, iris scanning and voice recognition offer a safer and more efficient way to verify identity and track financial transactions.
In the second part Marius Laurinaitis will address how deploying these technologies, banks can more effectively prevent, detect and report suspicious activity that may indicate money laundering, along with how it can reduce reliance on traditional and often less secure screening methods, thereby helping to combat financial crime and terrorist financing.

The Cocaine Industry: Governance, Territory, and Violence
2024-03-06 17:00 - 19:00
? Save the Date: 06.03.2024 17:00 CET
?️ Register via: https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJ0kd-moqz0pGtTtKJUitxxACK3NWC812I5T#/registration
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
About the Webinar
Join our Webinar on “The Cocaine Industry: Governance, Territory, and Violence” and explore: Is the drug business a free market and is the drug trade riddled with violence and cheating, or does it consist of a series of smooth and sophisticated operations between sellers and buyers, facilitated by intermediaries from wholesale to retail. ??
Explore the mechanisms by which drug production and trade can be governed with the settings in which such governance does not take place. ? ?
Take a look at how the territorial dynamics of drug trafficking flows through transit areas, while traditional conceptualizations depict illicit flows in transit points as invisible and disconnected from territory and society.
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
Take advantage of this opportunity to learn more about the cocaine industry – governance, territory, and violence.

The Phenomenon of Czech Moldavite and Ukrainian Amber Illicit Trade: Policy Responses
2024-03-13 15:00 - 17:00
? Save the Date: 13.03.2024 15:00 CET
?️ Register via: https://lnkd.in/eXwc-DPz
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
About the Webinar
Join our Webinar on “The Phenomenon of Czech Moldavite and Ukrainian Amber Illicit Trade: Policy Responses”. The illicit trade of Ukrainian Amber and Czech Moldavite has become a pressing regional concern, presenting challenges for authorities, law enforcement, and stakeholders invested in preserving our natural heritage. ⬅ ? ?
Explore the causes of amber and moldavite’s attractiveness, including the characteristics facilitating their easy smuggling.
We’ll delve into the deposits, extraction processes, and legislative gaps contributing to the emergence of a gray market for these precious resources, recent changes in Ukrainian legislation that have transitioned amber extraction and trade from the gray area into legality, along with the challenges accompanying these shifts. We’ll also introduce the legal framework and current law enforcement efforts against illicit trade with Moldavite in the Czech Republic. ?
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
Take advantage of this opportunity to learn more about the “The Phenomenon of Czech Moldavite and Ukrainian Amber Illicit Trade: Policy Responses”.
#GLITSS #COSTAction #globalisation #illicittrade #sustainability #security #webinar #research #networking #Europe

Shall the EU follow the example of the US in wildlife trade?
2024-03-20 13:30 - 15:30
📆 Save the Date: Mar 20, 2024 01:30 PM CET (12:30 GMT)
🎟️ Register via: https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJAlcO-gqD4sGd2jfhWyK3UsN2aBTrtVYim0#/registration
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
Take advantage of this opportunity to learn more about shall the EU follow the example of the US in wildlife trade.
About the Webinar
Join our Webinar on “Shall the EU follow the example of the US in wildlife trade?”
Wildlife overexploitation remains one of the greatest threats to species survival. While illegal trade garners much attention, the often underestimated threat of legal trade cannot be ignored. Join us as we dissect the complexities of this issue and explore how legal trade is often conflated with sustainability, despite evidence suggesting otherwise.
We will analyze 22 years of data (2000-2022) from the Fish and Wildlife Service of the United States, collated through the Law Enforcement Management Information System (LEMIS). With over 21,000 species traded, and even more when considering CITES listings, the scale of wildlife trade is staggering.
Understanding the origins of traded wildlife is crucial. Shockingly, a significant portion comes from the wild, with over 2.85 billion individuals traded over the studied period. This not only poses risks to species survival but also facilitates the spread of pests and pathogens, including species classified as “injurious invasive.”
Our discussion will shed light on the implications of this trade and emphasize the urgent need for better data collection and standardization. With many nations failing to adequately monitor and release data on wildlife trade, our ability to regulate and ensure sustainability is severely undermined. We’ll underscore the importance of improved data collection, especially in major import regions like the European Union, to mitigate the risks posed by wildlife trade to species survival.

Combating Illegal Trade by Promoting Critical Consumption
2024-04-12 10:30 - 11:30
📆 Save the Date: 12.04.2024, 10:30 – 11.30 CEST
🎟️ Register via: https://lnkd.in/e849z7V
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
Finally, the webinar concludes by providing aims to empower consumers with the knowledge to make more ethical choices, thus playing a crucial role in the fight against illegal trade.
About the Webinar
Join our Webinar on: “Combating Illegal Trade by Promoting Critical Consumption. “Several critical consumption initiatives exist in Italy. One emblematic example concerns citizens’ initiatives supporting entrepreneurs who denounce mafia extortion attempts in the South and beyond. These consumers choose to buy ‘ethical’ products from these entrepreneurs who declare that they do not pay protection money or have denounced the mafiosi who asked them to do so.
In an era where consumer choices have never been more powerful, the upcoming webinar, “Combating Illegal Trade by Promoting Critical Consumption,” promises to unveil the strategic role of consumers in making ethical decisions. This event will explore how our purchasing habits can either support or undermine illegal trade practices, shining a light on the significant impact of critical consumption.

Escapetruck – an interactive learning programme for awareness-raising
2024-04-12 13:00 - 14:00
📆 Save the Date: 12 April 2024, 13:00-14:00 CET (GMT +1).
🎟️ Register via: https://lnkd.in/eW8CEJV
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
Finally, the webinar concludes by providing the know-how of how to build a similar escape room based on Hungarian experience. Let’s transform awareness into action together.
About the Webinar
Join our Webinar on: “Escapetruck – an interactive learning programme for awareness-raising.”
In an era where traditional learning methods fall short of addressing complex social issues, the Research Group on Combatting Trafficking in Human Beings at the University of Pécs pioneers an extraordinary initiative: The Escapetruck.
The webinar shares with the audience the experiences of the Research Group on Combatting Trafficking in Human Beings (University of Pécs) with the operation of the so-called Escapetruck.
The Escapetruck is an educational programme that is based on interactive learning. In this programme, a container is transformed into an escape room furnished like the workplace of a prostitute who is exploited by traffickers. The programme specifically targets the youth and those who are most vulnerable to trafficking.
The webinar provides a short introduction to trafficking in human beings which is followed by showcasing the Escapetruck during operation. After that, specific aspects of operating the Escapetruck are shared.

Security Challenges Due to the Appearance of Counterfeit, Fraudulent and Suspicious Items in the Nuclear Supply Chain
2024-04-24 14:00 - 16:00
📆 Save the Date: 24.04.2024, 2pm Swiss time
🎟️ Register via: https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJ0vf-ihrz0pGtPEPKXNJhw_ftEJkY68NMWx#/registration
This session is designed for nuclear industry stakeholders, security professionals, quality assurance managers, and anyone vested in the integrity and security of nuclear operations.
Don’t miss this opportunity to equip yourself with the knowledge and tools to address one of the nuclear industry’s most complex challenges.
Reserve your spot today!
About the Webinar
Join our Webinar on: “Security Challenges Due to the Appearance of Counterfeit, Fraudulent and Suspicious Items in the Nuclear Supply Chain.”
As industry professionals, we understand the severe implications that CFSIs have on the safety and security of nuclear operations. These items, bypassing rigorous quality assurance protocols and deviating from specified standards, pose a direct threat to the integrity of essential nuclear components and systems. The potential for these items to trigger nuclear security events cannot be overstated, necessitating a proactive approach to prevention and risk assessment.

THE UNSEEN AND FAR-REACHING CONSEQUENCES OF ILLICIT TRADE IN TIMES OF WAR AND BEYOND
2024-05-16 | Zmaja od Bosne 8, Sarajevo
The Second GLITSS Annual Conference
on May 16th, Thursday, 2024

Background
The second annual GLITSS conference delves into the intricate repercussions of illicit trade on contemporary societies within the European and global context. Illicit trade, encompassing activities such as counterfeiting, smuggling, and trafficking, extends beyond mere economic and legal concerns to pose significant security, safety, and sustainability challenges. It enables security threats to materialize, such as natural-resource-fueled conflicts and terrorism. It presents safety hazards, such as those created by counterfeit medicines and drugs. TI threatens the sustainability of our societies by consuming excessive planetary resources and undermining the regulated functioning of international markets. Yet, despite this obvious objective relevance, the discussion on illicit trade remains compartmentalized within disciplinary boundaries. Bringing together experts, policymakers, academics, and industry stakeholders, the conference explores the complex interplay between illicit trade and its multifaceted threats to security, safety, and sustainability.

Register here

Agenda

PART 1 – INTRODUCTION
08:45 – 9:00 Registration
09:00 – 9:30 Welcome Speeches
09:30 – 10:00 Keynote Speech: Louise Shelley, (George Mason University, USA)
10:00 – 10:30 Local Keynote Speech: TBA

PART 2 – PANEL SESSIONS
10:30 – 11:30 Panel Session 1 – Economic Consequences of Illicit Trade: From Modern Slavery to Poverty
Panel Description: Illicit trade often operates on a lower cost basis than legitimate businesses, due to factors such as tax evasion, lower labor costs, and environmental disregard. Trafficking in human beings as the worst form of illicit trade generates millions of victims of modern slavery across the world. This unfair competition can drive legitimate businesses out of the market, leading to job losses and economic decline. Furthermore, the presence of illicit goods in markets can distort prices, making it difficult for legitimate businesses to compete. This can lead to lower-quality goods being sold at higher prices, or to genuine products being priced too low to remain profitable. Illicit trade generally undermines efforts to achieve sustainable development goals, such as reducing poverty, and it can also divert resources away from essential services, such as education and healthcare.
Moderator: TBA
11:30 – 12:00 Coffee break

12:00 – 13:00 Panel Session 2 – Illicit Trade Undermining Global Security: Financing Terrorism and Armed Conflicts
Panel Description: Illicit trade undermines global security by contributing to instability and conflict in some regions, as it is frequently used to fund armed groups and fuel violence. Illicit trade is a major source of funding for terrorist organizations, guerilla groups, and private military companies. The proceeds of illicit trade are used to purchase weapons, explosives, and other supplies, as well as to pay for the recruitment and training of terrorists, paramilitaries and mercenaries.
Moderator: TBA
13:00 – 14:00 Lunch Break

14.00 – 15.00 Panel session 3 – Illicit Trade Fueling Corruption and Organized Crime
Panel Description: Illicit trade is typically linked to organized crime and often relies on corrupt officials and businesses to operate, which can erode public trust in institutions and the rule of law. Illicit trade is also a major source of funding for criminal organizations. The link between illicit trade and political corruption can lead to impunity for criminals, enabling them to continue their illicit activities with little fear of punishment.
Moderator: TBA
15:00 – 15:30 Coffee break

15.00 – 16.00 Panel session 4 – Other Consequences of Illicit Trade: From Environmental to Health Concerns
Panel Description: The illegal exploitation of natural resources, such as timber, wildlife, and minerals, is a major driver of illicit trade. This exploitation leads to deforestation, habitat loss, and the extinction of endangered species. Furthermore, illicit goods pose serious health and safety risks to consumers. Counterfeit pharmaceuticals, for example, may contain harmful ingredients or be ineffective, while substandard medicine, food, and electronics can malfunction or cause injuries, and even death.
Moderator: TBA
16:00 – 16:30 Coffee break
16:30 – 17:00 Closing remarks
Moderator: TBA
17:00 – 17:30 COCKTAIL EVENT

Submission and Deadlines

GLITSS members are invited to express their interest to attend the Conference by choosing one of the roles:
Speakers: Abstract up to 300 words (including disciplinary perspectives, methods, and preliminary results).
The Deadline for Submission is 16th March 2024.
Selected participants will be informed about the outcome via email.
Please submit your proposals via the Registration form.
Based on selected proposals, conference organizers will determine the exact scope and might invite additional participants (stakeholders, experts, politicians, etc.) to contribute to the event.

Register here

Logistics & Participant Info

For your stay at the 2nd Annual GLITSS Conference, we suggest the following hotels:
Hotel Grand – 3 stars
Location: Approximately 6 minutes by car or 20 minutes on foot from the University of Sarajevo – Faculty of Criminal Justice and Security Studies.
Hotel Holiday – 4 stars
Location: Approximately 2 minutes by car or 7 minutes on foot from the University of Sarajevo – Faculty of Criminal Justice and Security Studies.
Hotel Novotel (Bristol) – 4 stars
Location: Approximately 4 minutes by car or 12 minutes on foot from the University of Sarajevo – Faculty of Criminal Justice and Security Studies.
Swissotel Hotel – 5 stars
Location: Approximately 3 minutes by car or 10 minutes on foot from the University of Sarajevo – Faculty of Criminal Justice and Security Studies.

Potential challenges of developing and integrating software applications for illicit trade in real products and services
2024-05-22 15:00 - 17:00
📆 Save the Date: May 22 at 15:00h (CET)
🎟️ Register via: https://lnkd.in/ezphvqaq
Don’t miss out on this opportunity to enhance your understanding of machine learning application integration!
Reserve your spot today!
About the Webinar
Join our Webinar on: “Potential challenges of developing and integrating software applications for illicit trade in real products and services.”
Integrating machine learning solutions into real products and services presents many challenges throughout its lifecycle. In this webinar, we delve into the journey of developing and integrating software applications, using one application where illicit trade would take place as an example, highlighting key phases and associated limitations.
Discover the hurdles we face, including code optimization, maintaining code quality, and addressing security vulnerabilities. Plus, we’ll dive into how AI solutions fit into existing infrastructures, tackle compatibility issues, and enhance functionality with customer feedback.
Whether you’re a developer, project manager, or tech enthusiast, this webinar will provide valuable insights into the multifaceted landscape of software development and AI integration.

ILLICIT TRADE IN GOODS: COMMON AND DISTINCTIVE FEATURES AND RELATED RESEARCH GAPS
2024-06-04 | Prague University of Economics and Business
GLITSS aims to contribute to the development of a better understanding of the phenomenon of illicit trade.
Working Group 1 of GLITSS organized a workshop at the beginning of June at the Prague University of Economics and Business, where researchers and practitioners from different fields convened to discuss various aspects of illicit trade. Presentations and discussions sought to bring more clarity to the shared characteristics and boundaries of the illicit trade phenomenon and also identify related research gaps.
We would like to thank all our participants and speakers for making this event a success!

ILLICIT TRADE IN GOODS: COMMON AND DISTINCTIVE FEATURES AND RELATED RESEARCH GAPS
2024-06-04 - 2024-06-05
Background
COST Action GLITSS aims to create a holistic research agenda on illicit trade practices, to increase public awareness with a view to enhancing societal resilience and to explore how technological innovation facilitates illicit trade but can also be used to fight it. This workshop is organized by the Working Group ‘The phenomena: Goods and money’ that focuses on the ‘phenomena’ making up illicit trade, providing a forum for discussion between all those who study the ‘goods’ (counterfeiting, smuggling, trafficking etc.) and the ‘capital’ (money laundering, tax evasion etc.). The workshop is envisioned as a platform for sharing best practices, proposing effective strategies, and encouraging collective action against this illicit trade phenomenon.
Objectives
This workshop aims to assemble a diverse array of experts, scholars, policymakers, and concerned stakeholders from various sectors to discuss the characteristics of illicit trade and as a result contributing to the development of more comprehensive understanding of the phenomenon.
The central questions explored in this workshop will be: What are the common and distinctive features of the phenomenon of ‘illicit trade’? The following sub-questions will guide the discussion during the workshop:

What are the boundaries of the phenomenon ‘illicit trade’, for example, how does it relate to phenomena like organized crime or corruption?
What does ‘illicit’ mean and when certain practices become so?
What are the characteristics of illicit trade across various research disciplines?
What are the sectoral (e.g., drug trafficking vs illicit trade in gemstones) and regional characteristics of illicit trade?
How is the concept of illicit financial flows related to the phenomenon of illicit trade in goods?
What are the underlying methods and evolving trends in the illicit trade of goods?
Who are the key actors involved in the illicit trade or along the smuggling network?
What are the best practices and lessons learned from regulatory efforts?

By addressing these questions, the workshop aims to contribute to a comprehensive understanding of illicit trade, promote effective policies, and foster collaborative efforts to combat this problem. The primary outcome of the workshop will be a drafted research agenda that not only indicates the main research gaps requiring further exploration to answer the aforementioned questions but also outlines the goals and priorities for future research activities.
Format
The workshop will be carried out in a hybrid format, with 10-15 in-person participants and the option to attend via the web. It will take place in Kyiv or Prague. The event spans two days and comprises various sessions. The precise schedule will be determined once the participants are confirmed. The sessions will include presentations and discussions on the aforementioned topics. Additionally, some sessions will be specifically dedicated to joint discussions aimed at formulating a research agenda and plans for future (joint) publications.
Submission and deadlines
GLITSS members are invited to express their interest to attend the workshop by choosing one of the roles:

Speakers: abstract up to 200 words (including disciplinary perspectives, methods, and preliminary results).
Young researchers and innovators: motivation letter up to 200 words;
Discussants: summary up to 100 words providing a description of the applicant’s research interests in connection to the workshop objectives.

The deadline for submission is 29 February 2024.
The selected participants will be informed by 15 March 2024 via email.
Please submit your proposals via Google form – https://forms.gle/JgogAC5tALNpDQko8
Based on selected proposals, workshop organizers will determine the exact scope and might invite additional participants (stakeholders, experts, politicians etc) to contribute to the event.

Summer School of Illicit Trade 2024
2024-07-08 - 2024-07-12 | University of Warsaw
Organized by the Global Initiative against Transnational Organized Crime (GI-TOC), the Illicit Trade Group and the Agricola School for Sustainable Development at the University of Groningen, and hosted by the University of Warsaw, the Summer School of Illicit Trade offers a unique opportunity to deepen your understanding of this pressing global issue and explore strategies for combating it.
Delve into the multifaceted realm of illicit trade through our comprehensive one-week course set to take place at the prestigious University of Warsaw from July 8th to 12th, 2024. Throughout this immersive experience, participants will engage in a dynamic blend of lectures, workshops, case studies, and discussions, led by esteemed experts and practitioners in the field. Explore the intricate economic, social, and security implications of illicit trade, gaining a nuanced understanding of its far-reaching effects on industries, communities, and global stability.
📅 The last moment to apply is 31 May 2024.
📍 Location: University of Warsaw.
👩🏻‍💻 Fees:

650€ for students
900€ for professionals

Applications will be evaluated on a rolling basis until all available spots are filled. Therefore, we highly recommend submitting your application as soon as possible to secure your place in the program.
Learn about the Summer School: https://www.rug.nl/education/summer-winter-schools/illicit-trade/?lang=en
Apply here: https://www.rug.nl/education/summer-winter-schools/illicit-trade/application-form

The Role of Technology in Combatting Illicit Trade
2024-07-10 - 2024-07-11 | Belgrade, Serbia
We are officially opening a call for abstracts for a workshop on The Role of Technology in Combatting Illicit Trade.
The in-person workshop will take place in Belgrade, Serbia, on July 10-11, 2024.
A minimum number of 5 local and international participants is required for the workshop to take place.
About the Topic:
The workshop will focus on exploring innovative technological solutions and strategies for detecting, tracking, and preventing illicit trade activities across various sectors. We aim to delve into the intersection of technology and illicit trade to identify effective approaches and best practices for addressing this global issue.
Call for abstracts:
If you are conducting research related to technology and illicit trade, we invite you to submit an abstract to this workshop. Selected participants will have the opportunity to present their research during the workshop and contribute to valuable discussions on combatting illicit trade through technology.
Please submit your abstract to the deputy leader of WG3, Lucas Tosi Rodriguez (lucas.tosirodriguez@unil.ch), no later than June 10th, 2024.
Note: Travel and accommodation expenses related to the workshop will be covered according to the COST Action Travel Reimbursement Rules.
Participants will receive official confirmation of the workshop by the 15th of June, 2024.
They are entitled to arrange their travel and accommodation plan only after the official confirmation.

The Role of Technology in Combatting Illicit Trade
2024-07-10 - 2024-07-11 | Belgrade, Serbia
We are excited to share the success of our recent in-person workshop on “The Role of Technology in Combatting Illicit Trade,” which took place in Belgrade, Serbia, on July 10-11, 2024.
The workshop explored innovative technological solutions and strategies for detecting, tracking, and preventing illicit trade activities across various sectors. Participants delved into the intersection of technology and illicit trade, identifying effective approaches and best practices for addressing this global issue. We brought together experts and researchers who shared invaluable insights and collaborated on pioneering ways to combat illicit trade through technology. The discussions were vibrant and filled with actionable ideas that will contribute significantly to the field.
Thank you to all participants for their contributions and to our organizers for making this event a success.

Migrant workers, the unnoticed side of the workforce - evaluation in terms of legality and other aspects
2024-07-22 - 2024-07-23 | Yıldız Technopark University, Istanbul, Türkiye, Turkey
📌 The in-person workshop will take place in Istanbul, Türkiye,
📆 July 22-23, 2024, hosted by the Yıldız Technopark University.
About the Topic:
The workshop will focus on practices developed by local authorities, in cooperation with European and international agencies for managing the impact of refugees and asylum seekers on the labor market and preventing illicit trade implications. Multidisciplinary theoretical reflections, case studies, and comparative analyses are welcomed.
Call for abstracts:
If you are conducting research related to refugees and asylum seekers, we invite you to submit an abstract to this workshop. Selected participants will have the opportunity to present their research during the workshop and contribute to valuable discussions.
Please submit your abstract to the Leader of WG2, Daniela Irrera: daniela.irrera@ssuos.difesa.it by June 30th, 2024.
Participants will receive official confirmation of the workshop by July 5th, 2024. Travel and accommodation expenses related to the workshop will be covered according to the COST Action Travel Reimbursement Rules.
Travel and accommodation expenses related to the workshop will be covered according to the COST Action Travel Reimbursement Rules. Participants are entitled to arrange their travel and accommodation plan only after the official confirmation.
Download the call for abstracts here

Migrant workers, the unnoticed side of the workforce - evaluation in terms of legality and other aspects
2024-07-22 - 2024-07-23 | Yıldız Technopark University, Istanbul, Türkiye, Turkey
This week (July 22-23), Cost Action GLITSS Working Group 2, Platform: the governance of illicit trade, held a workshop in Istanbul, hosted by Yıldız Technopark University, focusing on migrant workers, the unnoticed side of the workforce, evaluating legality and other aspects. Discussions included practices developed by local authorities in cooperation with European and international agencies to manage the impact of refugees and asylum seekers on the labour market and prevent illicit trade implications. Fourteen participants from seven countries presented case studies and theoretical methodological reflections. Special thanks to Kadir Asay, the co-coordinator of the workshop, and to Irem Uysal and Elifnaz Unay for organizing, as well as to all participants for their time and research contributions.

Exploring illicit trades with a focus on crypto assets
2024-09-25 - 2024-09-26 | University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
Criminals have swiftly adopted crypto assets due to their pseudo-anonymity, non-traceability, and cross-border exchange capabilities, making them ideal tools for illicit activities. This workshop aims to explore emerging trends and innovative techniques for detecting, investigating, and preventing crypto illicit trades. Additionally, it intends to assess the feasibility of regulatory approaches and their implications for stakeholders such as law enforcement agencies, financial institutions, and policymakers.
The in-person workshop will be held at the University of Lausanne, Switzerland, on September 25 and 26, 2024. It invites presentations from industry experts and scholars, as well as panel discussions and research paper presentations.
Deadline for Abstract submission: 7th of June, 2024
Participants are encouraged to share their latest research findings on different facets of illicit trade and the involvement of crypto assets. We invite you to submit an abstract outlining a project related to illicit trade and crypto assets for consideration as a presentation at the workshop.
Please submit your abstract to Lucas Tosi Rodriguez (Deputy Leader of WG3) via lucas.tosirodriguez@unil.ch) no later than June 7, 2024.
Travel and accommodation expenses related to the workshop will be covered in accordance with the COST Action Travel Reimbursement Rules.
We look forward to your abstract submissions!

Responses to Illicit Trade - Exploring Illicit Trades with a Focus on Crypto Assets
2024-09-25 - 2024-09-26 | University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
On September 25th and 26th, the Cost Action GLITSS (Working Group 3 – Responses to Illicit Trade) hosted an engaging workshop at ESC UNIL – École des sciences criminelles, focused on Exploring Illicit Trades with a Focus on Crypto Assets.
The workshop shed light on how crypto assets are being exploited by criminals and organized groups, particularly for money laundering. However, existing scientific evidence shows that while crypto assets are not yet broadly used, they are primarily exploited by offenders engaged in crypto-related crimes like ransomware, fraud, and the sale of drugs and other illegal items. The modus operandi for laundering tends to be quite basic. A key challenge we identified is the lack of available data, which continues to limit in-depth research in this field.
Special thanks to ESC UNIL – École des sciences criminelles, GLITSS, and COST Action for the support.

Human Trafficking and Counter-Trafficking: New Directions for Research and Policy
2024-09-25 - 2024-09-26 | Complutense University of Madrid
We are pleased to share that our Working Group 1 within the COST Action GLITSS held a workshop on “Human Trafficking and Counter-Trafficking: New Directions for Research and Policy” on 25-26 September at Complutense University of Madrid, Faculty of Political Science and Sociology, in collaboration with Iscte – University Institute of Lisbon.
During the workshop, we discussed practices often described in terms of human trafficking, as well as counter-trafficking policies and interventions. It was acknowledged that these policies and their implementation often fail to address the root causes of violence as experienced by many people on the move and may even conflict with their expectations and needs.
We are committed to further exploring these complex issues and fostering collaboration between researchers and policymakers. Our group will continue to work on developing insights and strategies, ensuring that future counter-trafficking policies are informed by research and local contexts.

The use of the European Trade Control and Expert System TRACES to collect data on the imports of wildlife to the EU - The marine ornamental fish trade as a case study
2024-12-12 14:30 - 16:00
🗓 Date: 12 December, 2024
🕰 Time: 12:30–14:00 CET
🎟 Register here: https://lnkd.in/eT5zJ7P6
Join our Webinar on enhancing wildlife trade monitoring: The use of the European Trade Control and Expert System TRACES to collect data on the imports of wildlife to the EU – The marine ornamental fish trade as a case study
Join us on 12 December 2024, 12:30–14:00 CET for a thought-provoking session exploring how the European Trade Control and Expert System (TRACES) can revolutionize wildlife trade monitoring, using the marine ornamental fish trade as a case study. Wild-caught fish from coral reefs—among the planet’s most threatened ecosystems—continue to supply the marine aquarium trade. With imports valued at €24 million annually and 26 million specimens, the EU is the second-largest importer worldwide. Since 2014, TRACES has recorded data on marine ornamental fish entering the EU. However, our analysis shows that one-third of these imports lack species-level identification. Our research offers:
Insights into the main exporting and importing countries.
Details on the species and families of fish traded between 2014 and 2021.
A proposed watchlist alert system for species requiring greater attention based on trade volumes, trends, and vulnerability metrics (IUCN Red List, FishBase).
With minor adjustments, TRACES has the potential to significantly enhance data precision and wildlife trade monitoring, providing critical support for frameworks like CITES.
Speakers:
Prof. dr. Ricardo Calado, University of Aveiro, Portugal
Prof. dr. Monica V. Biondo, Fondation Franz Weber, Switzerland
Prof. dr. Caroline Fukushima, University of Turku, Finland
Let’s discuss how we can leverage TRACES and other innovative tools to ensure sustainable trade practices and protect vulnerable species.

The illicit trade in antiquities and X-ray forensics for the discovery of counterfeit archaeological artifacts
2025-01-08 14:00 - 15:30
We are excited to invite you to our upcoming webinar on the illicit trade in antiquities and X-ray forensics for the discovery of counterfeit archaeological artifacts. This pressing issue highlights the trafficking of cultural heritage and the destruction of archaeological sites.
🗓 Date: January 8th, 2025,
🕰 Time: 2:00 PM (CET)
🎟 Register here: https://rug-nl.zoom.us/meeting/register/u5IpdeCgqzIjHNPgw42uT1ypDoW-rtQHSKMz#/registration
This webinar will feature:
Photographs of cultural heritage items seized by Serbian customs.
Visual documentation of the devastating impact of illicit excavations on archaeological sites.Key Topics to Be Covered:
A case study showcasing good practices in combating the illicit trade of cultural heritage.
A troubling example of artifact smuggling.
Scientific Contributions:
The webinar will also present findings from archaeological research on confiscated items, including authentic artifacts and high-quality forgeries.
Highlights include:
Non-destructive analyses (EDXRF, hhXRF spectrometry) of unique bronze and lead artifacts.
Comparative analysis with authentic specimens from corresponding historical periods.
Join us to explore the intersection of history, science, and efforts to preserve cultural heritage. Together, let’s work towards protecting our shared past.

Call for Proposals - Workshop: Civil Society’s Responses to Illicit Trade
2025-02-06 - 2025-02-07 | LUMSA University, Palermo, Italy
We are pleased to announce a call for abstracts for a workshop to be held in person at LUMSA University in Palermo, Italy, on February 6-7, 2025.
Event Dates: February 6-7, 2025
Venue: LUMSA University, Palermo, Italy
Scope:
The workshop aims to critically examine civil society’s responses to illicit trade, illegal markets, and organized crime. Successful initiatives abound in Italy, particularly in the South and regions historically entrenched with mafia organizations, as well as internationally. These initiatives include associations that empower entrepreneurs opposing mafia extortion, encouraging consumers to support ‘ethical’ products from companies rejecting ‘pizzo’ payments and openly challenging extortion schemes. Additionally, significant civic efforts support social cooperatives utilizing mafia-confiscated assets. These actions empower citizen-consumers not only to combat criminal activities but also to foster ethical exchanges and civic responsibility. Through strategic financial decisions, they contribute to broader movements advocating justice and integrity in economic practices.
We welcome multidisciplinary theoretical reflections, case studies, and comparative analyses inspired by these examples and others. If you are engaged in theoretical or applied research on civil society’s response to illicit trade, illegal markets, or organized crime, we invite you to submit an abstract for consideration. Selected participants will have the opportunity to present their research and actively contribute to discussions during the workshop.
Important Dates:
Paper Submission: November 30, 2024
If you are interested in participating, we invite you to submit your abstract to stefano.caneppele@unil.ch and lucas.tosirodriguez@unil.ch by November 30, 2024. Abstracts should be approximately 200 words and align with the workshop themes outlined in the call. Please include “GLITSS Workshop Palermo 2025” as the subject line of your email.
Notification of acceptance will be sent in December 2024.

Civil Society’s Responses to Illicit Trade
2025-02-06 - 2025-02-07 | LUMSA University, Palermo, Italy
Under the Cost Action GLITSS we had the privilege of organizing a workshop in Palermo on Civil Society’s Responses to Illicit Trade.
A huge thank you to Umberto Di Maggio, Francesca Forno, and Università LUMSA for hosting us on February 6-7, 2025, and to Università di Trento for their collaboration in bringing this event to life!
We were delighted to welcome Baris Cayli Messina, Carina Gunnarson, and Theodoros Rakopoulos as keynote speakers. Alongside insightful presentations by Prof. Dr.Besa Shahini, Mirela Tase, Ludovica Boelting, H. Konstantin J., Ilona Dumanska, Boban Misoski, Jaroslav Dvorak and Clara Rondani, their contributions sparked engaging discussions on what defines civil society, how this term can sometimes be misused, the processes that turn individuals into mobilized communities, and the impact of the digital world in driving change.
A massive thank you to all participants for making this workshop an engaging platform filled with insightful discussions and iexchanges.
Civil society may play a key role in fighting illicit trade and organized crime

Workshop on Combating Illicit Trade with Data Science, AI, and Blockchain Solutions
2025-02-23 - 2025-02-25 | Porto, Portugal
We are pleased to share that Prof. Dr. George Azzopardi is organizing a workshop aimed at tackling global illicit trade using data science, artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and blockchain technologies. This workshop, organized by Working Group 4 of the EU COST Action GLITSS, invites researchers and practitioners to collaborate on this critical issue.
Event Dates: 23-25 February, 2025
Venue: Porto, Portugal
Scope:
We will explore cutting-edge approaches to combat illicit activities such as:

Trafficking of historical artifacts, wildlife, and humans
Environmental crimes and endangered species protection
Financial and cyber crimes
and more

Join us in addressing the challenges of collecting reliable datasets, developing performance metrics, and applying technologies like remote sensing, deep learning, pattern recognition, and blockchain to this fight.
Topics of Interest:

Machine Learning, Deep Learning, Reinforcement Learning
Explainable AI, Computer Vision, and Predictive Analytics
Blockchain, Cryptography, and Network Analysis
Remote Sensing and Spatial Data Analysis
Human and Wildlife Trafficking, Drugs, Arms, and Counterfeits

Important Dates:

Paper Submission: November 15, 2024
Author Notification: January 6, 2025
Camera Ready & Registration: January 22, 2025

We invite all interested researchers to submit their work and help advance the fight against illicit trade through innovative technological solutions.
For more information and submission details, visit https://icpram.scitevents.org/DSAIB-IllicitTrade.aspx

Workshop The Political Dimensions of Illicit Trade
2025-03-14 - 2025-03-15 | Georgian Insttute of Public Affairs, Tbilisi Georgia
We are officially opening a call for abstracts for a workshop on The Political Dimensions of Illicit Trade
This Workshop is part of a larger dialogue on the economic, political, social and legal dimensions of international trade and its intersections with pressing geopolitical issues. By fostering interdisciplinary conversations, the event aims to generate actionable insights and policy recommendations for addressing illicit trade globally.
The in-person workshop will take place in Tbilisi, Georgia on March 14-15, 2025, hosted by the Georgian Insttute of Public Affairs
Contact person: Tina Tsomaia t. tsomaia@gipa.ge

About the Topic:
We invite scholars, researchers, and practitioners to submit abstracts for a conference session dedicated to exploring the complex relationship between illicit trade and geopolitical dynamics. This session seeks to understand how political tensions—such as sanctions, economic restrictions, hybrid war and emerging policies—shape illegal markets, trade routes, and enforcement mechanisms.
Contributors are encouraged to address, but are not limited to, the following themes:

Sanctions and Illicit Trade:

How sanctions against Russia and other nations fuel the rise of illegal markets.
Adaptation of trade routes to bypass restrictions and their broader geopolitical implications.

Alternative Economic Channels:

The role of illicit trade in sustaining economies under political or economic isolation.
Case studies of countries leveraging illegal markets during geopolitical crises.

Enforcement Challenges:

The impact of political pressures on the effectiveness of trade law enforcement.
Collaboration and conflict among international law enforcement agencies.

Implications of the Offshore Law:

Critical analysis of Georgia’s offshore law and its potential to attract or deter illicit financial activities.
Connections between offshore tax havens and global trade dynamics, including illicit trade flows.

Media and illicit trade: Analyzing the current state of media in addressing illicit trade ; Public Perception of Illicit Trade
Broader Geopolitical Contexts:

The intersection of illicit trade with war economies and post-conflict reconstruction.
Regional trade networks and their susceptibility to political volatility.

Please submit your abstract to the leader of WG2, Daniela Irrera
daniela.irrera@unicasd.it by January 31st 2025.
Participants will receive official confirmation of the workshop by February 10 th, 2024.

Travel and accommodation expenses related to the workshop will be covered according to the COST Action Travel Reimbursement Rules. Participants are entitled to arrange their travel and accommodation plan only after the official confirmation.

Abstract Length: 300-500 words.
Format: Provide a clear title, research question or objective, methodology, key findings or arguments, and relevance to the session’s theme.
Deadline: by January 31st 2025.
Submission Platform: Abstracts should be submitted through e mail:
Eligibility: Open to academics, policymakers, industry experts, and graduate students. Collaborative and interdisciplinary work is highly encouraged.

Important Dates:

Abstract Submission Deadline: January 31, 2025
Notification of Acceptance: February 10, 2025
Conference Date: March 14-15, 2025

Contact:
For inquiries, please contact Tina Tsomaia at t.tsomaia@gipa.ge; tel: +995599502446
GIPA’s Caucasus School of Journalism and Media Management (CSJMM)
GIPA’s Caucasus School of Journalism and Media Management (CSJMM) is considered a leader and a model program for journalism education in the Caucasus region and beyond. CSJMM’s English-language Mater’s in Multimedia Journalism and Media Management program has educated and trained up to 700 journalists from Georgia, Azerbaijan, Armenia and other post-Soviet countries. Majority of CSJMM graduates are employed by independent media organizations as leading reporters and media managers (including BBC. Reuters, Voice of America etc.). GIPA’s effort to educate Azerbaijani and Armenian journalists has been supported by numerous grants from the U.S. government and resulted in creating a strong network of professionals, who trust each-other regardless of the policies of their countries.
Tina (Tiko) Tsomaia, MD, PhD, is a professor of journalism and communication at the GIPA. Her diverse career spans education, journalism, communications, research, and training. Notable roles include being an OSI Global Faculty Grant fellow at NYU University, a visiting fellow at City University London, and a recipient of an EU Cost Action STSM to Zaragoza University.
Tsomaia is a board member of the European Journalism Training Association and the convenor of the IRCT Communication Advisory Board.
Tsomaia leads the innovative project www.femicide.ge, addressing murder crimes, including femicide. Tsomaia is also the founder of an “open movement” advocating for community mental health services and open discussions on mental health issues.
Tsomaia holds a Ph.D. in social sciences from the Georgian Institute of Public Affairs, along with an MA in Medicine and Journalism and Media Management. She is a sought-after Expert Speaker at international conferences organised by various prestigious institutions. Her research topics are: pre-natal sex selection, femicide, trauma and addiction, ethical decision making, social-emotional learning and health communication.
Selected articles, reports and publications:

Tsomaia, T., Makhviladze, N., & Abzianidze, N. (2022). “Migration Coverage by the Georgian Media in 2019-2021” [eBook]. Tbilisi: Prepared by the Georgian Institute for Public Affairs on behalf of International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD) Vienna – Austria Authorized by the European Union and funded by the International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD) – 2021.
Tsomaia, T. & Keshelashvili, A. Journalism Programme Accreditation in Georgia. In Nowak, E. (Ed.) Accreditation of Journalism Education in Europe. Nomos, Broschiert, Germany,2020
Tsomaia, T., 2020. Youth potential in Modern Georgia. In: N. Bolt and E. Lange-Ionatamishvili, ed., Strategic Communications Laboratory, 1st ed. Tbilisi, Georgia: Strategic Communications Laboratory Georgia. Available at: <https://www.stratcomlab.com/> [Accessed 17 January 2021].
Tsomaia, T. and Keshelashvili, A. How to Respond to Information Operations While Preserving Our Commitment to Free Speech and the Free Flow of Ideas. Georgian Info Environment Research Publication by NATO Strategic Communications Centre of Excellence
Tsomaia, T. and Keshelashvili, A., How to Respond to Information Operations While Preserving Our Commitment to Free Speech and the Free Flow of Ideas. Georgian Info Environment Research Publication by NATO Strategic Communications Centre of Excellence
Tsomaia, T., 2020. Youth potential in Modern Georgia. In: N. Bolt and E. Lange-Ionatamishvili, ed., Strategic Communications Laboratory, 1st ed. Tbilisi, Georgia: Strategic Communications Laboratory Georgia. Available at: <https://www.stratcomlab.com/> [Accessed 17 January 2021].
Tsomaia, T. & Keshelashvili, A. 2020 Journalism Programme Accreditation in Georgia. In Nowak, E. (Ed.) Accreditation of Journalism Education in Europe. Nomos, Broschiert, Germany.
A preliminary analysis of gender violence among migrants and displaced people in Europe, Santiago Boira (1), Anita Nudelman (2), Tina (Tiko) Tsomaia (3), Anthropological Researches and Studies, 2018
“Hearing their voices”: exploring femicide among migrants and culture minorities, Nudelman, Tsomaia, Boira, Ballica, Tabagua, Qualitative Sociology Review (QSR), 2017
Tsomaia, Tiko. 2015. Foeticide, Femicide and Violence Against Women in Georgia, Femicide, a global issue that demands action, Taking Action Against Gender-Related Killing of Women and Girls, Vienna: ACUNS. Retrieved from website: http://acuns.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/FemicideVol-IV.pdf on July 5, 2016.
Tsomaia, T. (2016). Professionalism and Myths in Covering Conflict. Journal of Politics and Democratization. Retrieved from https://gipa.ge/JPD/?page=article&id=5
Author of the manual for journalists and health professionals in Law and Health; Manual for Reporting Children; Manual for reporting HIV/AIDS and Drug Use; Author of the handbook: Recommendations for better health communication for journalists and health professionals; Author of the manual for journalists on sensitive gender reporting; Author of the amendments package for the GPB’s Code of Conduct, Broadcasters’ Code of Conduct and the Journalists Charter to institutionalize gender sensitive reporting;
Conducted number of research projects on: Media tendencies in covering drugs use in Georgia; Covering health issues in Georgian media; Content analysis of International media of the Georgian- Russian war;
