Crime prevention in special (free) economic zones

Abstract

The objective of the study was to determine the specific aspects and prospects of crime prevention in special economic zones as special economic and geographical entities. In the course of the research a set of practical methods was applied: doctrinal, comparative and prognostic approach. The risk of crime in the zones depends on the particular economic activity and the actors involved. The current criminal structure in free trade zones is dominated by illegal trade and infringement of intellectual property rights. However, the structuring of crime commonly depends on two factors: a) the division of zones into external/internal; and b) characteristics of the economic system of the country where the zone is located. The entities dedicated to crime prevention are classified as special and non-special, with international entities and representatives of the private sector standing out. It is concluded that the prospects for crime prevention in this area are related to the involvement of the capacities of international actors and the action of representatives of the private sector, taking into account the particular characteristics and conditions of countries with a transitive economy and a particular legal system.