Rule of Law Solutions to Transnational Organized Crime: Driving Security and Stability

The International Development Law Organization (IDLO) – Hague Branch Office is hosting this workshop ahead of the 15th UN Crime Congress (26 September – 1 October 2026).

Transnational Organized Crime (TOC) remains a major global challenge, thriving in contexts of weak governance, corruption, and limited accountability. Generating up to USD 5 trillion annually, it undermines state authority, distorts economies, and threatens peace and security across borders.

This workshop will examine how rule of law approaches can effectively counter TOC and strengthen institutional resilience. Discussions will focus on:

• The link between organized crime, insecurity, and state fragility
• Practical rule of law solutions, including legal reform, justice sector capacity, and financial integrity
• The importance of coordinated national, regional, and international responses

The programme features expert insights from across policy, research, and international practice:

• Opening remarks: Representative of the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs
• Moderator: Fabricio Guariglia, Director, IDLO Hague Office

Panelists:

• Kars de Bruijne (Clingendael Institute) – on how TOC undermines governance, fuels instability, and erodes public trust
• Buluma Bwire (IDLO) – on strengthening legal frameworks, justice systems, and community trust to disrupt criminal networks
• Charity Kagwi-Ndungu (UNODC, Regional Office for Eastern Africa) – on international cooperation and partnerships to enhance collective responses

The event will bring together The Hague’s international justice community, including government representatives, academics, and NGOs from both the Global North and South.