Topic: 2025-Combating Transnational Organized Crime
Country: Vietnam
Delegate Name: Sophia Kaulen
The Socialist Republic of Vietnam recognizes the severe global threat posed by transnational crime organizations. These organizations have a far-reaching impact on international safety, economic stability, and governmental integrity. Transnational crime is responsible for illicit activities such as drug trafficking, human trafficking, arms smuggling, money laundering, and corruption, all of which undermine national and international security. The economic cost of transnational crime is estimated in the hundreds of billions of dollars annually, but the toll on human lives is immeasurable. Vietnam acknowledges the complexity of this issue, as criminal organizations evolve and utilize advanced technologies to expand their reach. As a nation with direct exposure to transnational criminal networks, particularly in the Southeast Asian region, Vietnam understands the importance of confronting organized crime to protect its people and contribute to global stability. Vietnam is located near regions historically associated with significant drug production and trafficking, such as the Golden Triangle. The government of Vietnam has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to combatting all forms of transnational crime, with a particular focus on narcotics trafficking, through a zero-tolerance approach and comprehensive enforcement measures. In line with our commitment to combatting organized crime, Vietnam has strengthened national laws and established frameworks to address various forms of criminal activity. The Law on Prevention and Control of Narcotic Drugs (2021) and the Penal Code (2015) are critical in our efforts to combat the illicit drug trade and related crimes. Additionally, Vietnam works closely with neighboring countries through initiatives such as ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) and the Mekong MOU (Memorandum of Understanding) to disrupt transnational drug trafficking networks and promote regional cooperation. Vietnam is also actively involved in international partnerships with organizations such as the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), which plays a pivotal role in enhancing the capacity of member states to tackle organized crime. For example, Vietnam’s collaboration with ASEAN and UNODC’s regional initiatives aims to build stronger border security measures, improve law enforcement capabilities, and facilitate the sharing of intelligence to combat cross-border crime effectively. While significant progress in addressing the issue of transnational organized crime has been made, there remain key challenges that need to be tackled both within our borders, and internationally. Despite efforts to maintain a low level of corruption, some regions still face corruption within law enforcement and governmental structures, which complicates efforts to combat organized crime. Criminal organizations often exploit these vulnerabilities to gain influence and evade justice. Criminal organizations often use technology to hide illegal activity actions on digital platforms, making it difficult for law enforcement to stop them and for that, more investment in cybercrime capabilities is needed. Border security and surveillance are still not strong enough in Southeast Asia, including Vietnam. Smuggling and trafficking are ongoing problems. Better border controls, surveillance technology, and more cooperation between countries are needed to stop these crimes.
Vietnam believes fighting transnational crime requires countries working together and to improve cooperation, Vietnam suggests strengthening partnerships through ASEAN and the Mekong MOU. Joint border operations and intelligence sharing could be crucial when putting organized crime to bed. Vietnam expresses its commitment to the global fight against transnational organized crime. While progress has been made, there is still much work to be done to address the evolving nature of criminal organizations. Vietnam calls upon all member states to enhance international cooperation, improve law enforcement capabilities, and prioritize efforts to combat corruption in the fight against organized crime. By working together, we can disrupt criminal networks, safeguard rights, and ensure a more secure future for all.
