Cocaine connections: Links between the Western Balkans and South America

This webinar marks the launch of the report “COCAINE CONNECTIONS – LINKS BETWEEN THE WESTERN BALKANS AND SOUTH AMERICA” authored by Fatjona Mejdini, Director of the GI-TOC’s Observatory of Illicit Economies in South Eastern Europe (SEE-Obs).

This report examines how organized crime groups from the Western Balkans have become key players in the global cocaine trade by establishing strong links over the past two decades in cocaine-producing and transit hubs across South America. It provides an in-depth analysis of their evolution, alliances, structures, modus operandi, and the routes they use to traffic cocaine into Europe and beyond.

Additionally, it explores the factors in their home region and other jurisdictions that have enabled their strong presence in South America. The report also assesses the impact of their presence in South America and offers strategic foresight on their future in the region, along with recommendations on the most effective ways to counter their influence.