illicit economies

Illicit economies refer to illegal activities that generate significant financial income, such as drug trafficking, human smuggling, illegal arms trade, and money laundering. These economies operate outside legal systems, often organized by criminal groups, and can undermine legal markets, fuel corruption, and threaten social stability. Despite their illegality, they are driven by demand, lucrative profits, and weak enforcement, making them a crucial concern for governments and international agencies aiming to combat crime and promote economic stability.