Based at the International Development Department, at the University of Birmingham, the Serious Organised Crime and Anti-Corruption Evidence (SOC ACE) research programme’s overarching focus is on generating rigorous research that engages directly with policy and practice to uncover more feasible options to tackle serious organised crime (SOC), illicit finance, kleptocracy and corruption. Here’s a round up of their September 2024 news.

SOC ACE held their first-ever researchers conference at the University of Birmingham, 18-19 September, bringing together SOC ACE researchers, policymakers, and practitioners to engage with their cutting edge research to address the global challenges that inspired the SOC ACE programme and to explore the future of the fight against organised crime and corruption. Participants explored key issues, such as the ongoing SOC ACE Policy Lab on paramilitaries and illicit economies, while engaging in in-depth discussions on economic crime, reforms to combat organised crime and corruption, and innovative data and measurement methods to enhance response strategies. Strategic conversations with FCDO colleagues focused on enhancing collaboration between researchers and policymakers to maximise the impact of these insights on real-world policy.

SOC ACE published a briefing note from Huma Haider on Addressing Organised Crime and Security Sector Reform and Governance: Linkages, processes, outcomes and challenges.