Case studies of how international organisations and networks support national and global efforts to counter illicit use of virtual assets

The rapid growth of virtual assets has created new challenges for law enforcement agencies and public authorities tasked with preventing and investigating financial crime. While governments remain at the forefront of regulatory and enforcement responses, international organisations and professional networks play an increasingly important role in strengthening national capacities and fostering cross-border cooperation.

This first webinar in a two-part series co-organised by the Basel Institute on Governance and the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) explores how international organisations, networks and associations translate global standards and expertise into practical support for countries countering the illicit use of virtual assets.

Key takeaways and recordings

• Read a summary of the key takeaways in this blog: Virtual assets, real-world crime and the search for effective responses.
• To view the recordings, browse the full playlist on YouTube or go straight to individual interventions: Vera Strobachova-Budway, Erlin Agich, Valentin Draganel, Alexandru Donciu, Fabrizio Fioroni and Michal Gromek, plus the final lightning round.

What the webinar covers

The session will examine the distinct contribution of international organisations in addressing crypto-related financial crime risks, with a focus on:

• Current initiatives to tackle financial crime involving cryptocurrencies
• Examples of effective technical assistance projects supporting national authorities
• The importance of continuous training and awareness raising for investigators, prosecutors and policymakers
• The role of national, regional and international cooperation, and how international organisations and networks facilitate operational and policy-level collaboration

Through practical case studies and examples, participants will gain insight into how technical support, research and capacity development complement government-led efforts and strengthen collective responses to emerging risks.

Speakers

• Erlin Agich, Associate Anti-Corruption Officer, OSCE
• Alexandru Donciu, Specialist, Financial Investigations – Virtual Assets, Basel Institute on Governance
• Valentin Draganel, Deputy Director, Financial Intelligence Unit Moldova
• Fabrizio Fioroni, AML/CFT Advisor, UNODC
• Michal Gromek, Chair, Digital Assets Task Force, Global Coalition to Fight Financial Crime

Vera Strobachova-Budway, Head of the Economic Governance Unit, OSCE, moderated the event.