GIFT-BASED MONEY LAUNDERING

Abstract

The article delves into the global phenomenon of money laundering, recognized by the international community, including the United Nations, as a prevalent and perilous transnational crime. The escalating threat of legitimizing criminal gains worldwide is a concern shared by the majority of countries. According to experts, recent years have seen criminal proceeds from various illicit activities in money laundering accounting for 2 to 5% of the global gross product, equating to 1 to 3 trillion US dollars. With the globalization of financial systems, there arises a need for coordinated international efforts to combat money laundering. Emphasis is placed on crime prevention, just sentencing, and the alignment of criminal legislation with international standards. Consequently, research is vital for defining accountability for laundering criminal proceeds, addressing contributing factors, ensuring proper legal classification, and bolstering adherence to international norms in national laws.

Until today, the phenomenon of money laundering through the provision of gifts has been little studied. Receiving and giving gifts may be one of the hidden methods and means of laundering criminal proceeds.