ABSTRACT
Conflict creates a permissive environment for criminal activity, and the threat or use of force enables crime. Violence occurs when a competing group wants its turn at the trough (which may result in a coup); markets or power shifts; or external actors try to crack down on the situation. Members of the public are often caught in the crossfire. Far more people are killed outside of conflicts – including in criminal violence than within them. Organised crime is rarely the cause of conflict in such areas, but it can increase their vulnerability. It may accelerate brain drain, distort local markets, disrupt traditional power structures (by replacing established authority figures with younger leaders) and facilitate the buying of power. All of these factors increase the likelihood of conflict. Conflict creates conditions that enable criminality to flourish, while illicit activity generates valuable revenue that can be used to purchase weapons and equipment, pay foot soldiers and fund patronage.
