Mechanisms of Undermining Crime

• In Event: Organized Crime, Violence and Politics

Abstract

The concept of undermining or subversive crime seems to be linked undistinguishably to organized crime, and both terms are sometimes used synonymously. Definitions of the phenomenon are sometimes based on its effects, while others have their focus on the manifestations. Discussion on the underlying causes is lacking. Regularly, activities that actually do not relate to undermining are labeled as such. This contribution identifies the history and the definitions of the phenomenon and further explores the phenomenon with the purpose to start the scientific debate and stimulate empirical research. The mingling of the underworld and upper world appears to be an important element of undermining, in which the upperworld sometimes plays a doubtful role. This role of established institutes (including government) in the facilitation of undermining crime will be explored from different angles and included in a model. It is clear that the underlying mechanisms are still obscure and this provides opportunities for further research. The preliminary results of a first attempt of this kind are presented.

Authors

• Emile Kolthoff, Open University Netherlands

• Sjaak Khonraad, Avans University