1. Introduction (approx. 200 words)
- Introduce globalisation and crime in one sentence.
- Two sentences summarising the main argument: globalisation facilitates transnational crimes (e.g., darknet drug trade), creating both opportunities for criminals and challenges for policing.
- Briefly outline the essay’s structure: defining globalisation, introducing key concepts from Nils Gilman and Katja Franko, examining the darknet drug trade using primary sources (Interpol, Europol), and addressing counterarguments.
2. Globalisation and Crime (approx. 400 words)
- Define globalisation (economic, technological, political dimensions).
- Introduce key concepts:
- “Deviant Globalization: Black Market Economy in the 21st Century. Continuum” by Gilman and others
- Katja Franko ́s “Globalization and Crime”: new transnational dynamics challenging traditional crime control.
- Link these ideas to the darknet as a global, tech-driven criminal marketplace.
3. Theoretical Framework (approx. 350 words)
- Apply criminological theories (Routine Activity, Strain, anomie) to show how global interconnectedness and inequality foster crime.
- Highlight technology’s role (encryption, anonymity tools) in enabling transnational illicit activities.
4. Mechanisms of Globalisation Enabling the Darknet Drug Trade (approx. 500 words)
- Technological: Darknet platforms (Tor), cryptocurrencies, encryption.
- Economic: Cross-border supply chains, global consumer demand.
- Political/Legal: Fragmented international laws, limited global governance of cybercrime.
- Integrate primary sources (Interpol, Europol reports) to illustrate scale and complexity.
5. Case Study: Darknet Drug Trade (approx. 600 words)
- Discuss Silk Road, AlphaBay as exemplars.
- Use specific policing operations and official reports to show enforcement challenges.
- Relate back to Gilman and Aas to frame these markets as products of deviant globalisation.
6. Counterarguments and Limitations (approx. 350 words)
- Acknowledge improved international cooperation (joint policing operations).
- Some crimes remain local, not all are globalized.
- Darknet is still a niche market compared to traditional drug trafficking.
7. Conclusion (approx. 200 words)
- Reassert the thesis that globalization facilitates certain transnational crimes.
- Emphasize the need for cohesive international strategies and updated policies.
- Suggest further research into global governance of emerging criminal technologies.
References:
Academic sources only, including books, journal articles, official reports, etc.
Lecturer ́s Note: Only genuine references are to be used (all sources must be accessible online). Failure to comply will result in a reduction of marks or possible failure. Please refer to the marking criteria for further details.