ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the frame of reference within which the Lyon Group actors operate in order to identify the similarities and differences between them and discover how they reach consensus. The internal Lyon Group document concerning preparation of the Birmingham Summit is very useful for understanding how a common frame of reference on transnational organized crime has been developed within the G8. The interviews conducted with the Lyon Group actors confirm that, regardless of the office or country they came from, this description received unanimous endorsement. Whether with diplomats, justice sector officials or law enforcement practitioners, there was a common thread to the interviews: nobody questioned the existence of a threat to international security from transnational organized crime and its criminal groups. The law enforcement delegates to the Lyon Group who were interviewed indeed tended to place greater emphasis on operational difficulties.
