International Cooperation in the Fight Against Transnational Organized Crime

It was a true honor to participate in the Venice Geopolitics Festival and contribute to the discussion on combating transnational organized crime.

In particular, we focused on European Directive 2024/1260, which Italy is required to transpose into national law by November 23, 2026. The directive introduces new provisions regarding the recovery and confiscation of illicit assets—a highly relevant topic that highlights how essential it is to target illegal wealth to make the fight against crime truly effective.

However, it was equally important to reflect on some critical aspects—chief among them, the new form of non-conviction-based confiscation provided for by the directive. This mechanism raises serious concerns about the protection of fundamental rights, especially the presumption of innocence.

As Pio La Torre wisely said:
“To fight the mafia, we must be equipped—but never at the expense of rights.”
A message that remains powerfully relevant today, reminding us of the need to strike a balance between justice and effectiveness, without ever compromising the guarantees of the rule of law.

The protection of rights and the fight against organized crime continue to be complex challenges, requiring thoughtful reflection, expertise, and ongoing dialogue.

Delving into these topics alongside outstanding experts such as the Deputy Director General of Public Security and Director of the Central Criminal Police, Dr. Raffaele Grassi; Ambassador Dr. Maria Assunta Accili; CSM Councilor and Professor of Criminal Law at the University of Florence, Dr. Michele Papa; and Magistrate and Legal Advisor to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Dr. Giovanni Tartaglia Polcini, was a tremendous privilege.