Economic crime in the EU: new threats, technologies and international cooperation

How is the fight against economic crime evolving in Europe – and what role do the latest technologies play in this? Answers to these questions were discussed in late March 2026 in Trier (Germany) during the annual international conference organised by the Academy of European Law (ERA). Bohdan Ostudimov, Lead Research Officer at the Training Laboratory for the Study of EU Law at the National School of Judges of Ukraine, took part in the event. Together with judges, prosecutors, lawyers and experts from the financial sector, he joined the discussion on key challenges in the field of combating economic crime.

The conference agenda covered a wide range of topics – from combating fraud and corruption to anti-money laundering, the use of crypto-assets, sanctions compliance and the recovery of illicitly obtained assets. The focus was on current European policy and the legal framework. Participants analysed new legislative initiatives, discussed practical case studies and shared experiences at both EU and national legal system levels.

Particular emphasis was placed on the latest technologies. Experts noted that artificial intelligence is being used increasingly to detect illicit financial flows and improve the effectiveness of investigations – particularly as financial crimes become more complex.

Key topics of the conference include: changes to the EU regulatory framework and their impact on cross-border cooperation, particularly in the area of anti-money laundering (AMLA); the development of anti-corruption policies and the fight against fraud; current trends in the activities of the European Public Prosecutor’s Office; challenges for various sectors in the field of compliance and criminal prosecution; EU Member States’ practices regarding asset confiscation and compliance with sanctions; and the use of technology in the investigation of financial crimes. In conclusion, participants noted the high practical value of the event and its relevance. Such international platforms not only facilitate the exchange of experience but also help to shape common approaches to combating economic crime in Europe.