March 31, 2017
The ICP Department together with the Royal United Services Institute for Defense and Security Studies (RUSI) organizes on April 11, 2017 at AUCA a day-long workshop on illicit financial flows in Central and South Asia. Participants of the workshop are experts, government officials and development agencies working on this issue.
Illicit financial flows (IFFs) significantly impact economic development by driving funds away from the formal economy, deterring investment, hindering economic growth and increasing the risk of instability.
International aid assistance can significantly help in mitigating the risks posed by IFFs, but without detailed analysis on their local and regional mechanics, and the impact they have on financial integrity, it can also be misused and exacerbate existing issues. This research seeks to offer recommendations to the UK government in particular on how to better engage on this issue.
The aim of the day’s discussion will be to identify the challenges that IFFs pose to Central and South Asia and how this is impacting the development of the region. It will in particular examine what form IFFs take, their source of funds and how the flows are legitimised, thus undermining the financial integrity of the region. It will also seek to explore how effective current approaches and legislative norms are in combatting these challenges, both at the regional and international level.
The focus countries are: Afghanistan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan and Tajikistan.
Royal United Services Institute for Defence and Security Studies
The Royal United Services Institute for Defence and Security Studies (RUSI) is a London-based independent research organisation engaged in cutting-edge research and analysis of international security. RUSI embodies over 180 years of forward thinking, free discussion, and careful reflection on national and international policy questions. Its expertise has been utilised by governments, international and intergovernmental institutions, and private-sector and third-sector organisations.
Centre for Financial Crime and Security Studies
RUSI’s Centre for Financial Crime & Security Studies (CFCS) is dedicated to addressing the challenges and effects of financial crime and threat finance to the UK and international security. To achieve this we conduct empirical research and analysis to develop a strong evidence base on which policymakers and practitioners can develop improved practice.
Interested faculty and senior/MA students can apply to attend by sending a note of interest with explanation why you are interested to icp@auca.kg by April 5 (Wednesday)