UNODC on Illicit Financial Flows (IFFs)

The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) have collaborated to develop a statistical framework and methodologies for estimating illicit financial flows (IFFs). Since 2017, these two agencies have undertaken coordinated efforts, resulting in the creation of a Conceptual Framework for the Statistical Measurement of Illicit Financial Flows. This framework is accompanied by methodological guidelines specifically designed to measure IFFs associated with selected illegal market activities.

In addition to developing these frameworks and guidelines, the UNODC is actively involved in implementing technical assistance projects. These projects aim to apply and test the methodological guidelines in real-world scenarios. They are focused on measuring IFFs in selected countries across Latin America and the Asia-Pacific region. Furthermore, the UNODC is conducting regional studies that delve into IFFs related to specific types of illegal activities, enhancing the understanding and ability to combat these financial flows effectively.

A summary of national estimates of crime-related IFFs can be found here: