Fighting illicit financial flows: key learnings from GI ACE research

Published: April 2026
Authors: Devi Pillay

This synthesis document presents insights from GI ACE research on the topic of illicit financial flows (IFFs). UNCTAD and UNODC define IFFs as ‘financial flows that are illicit in origin, transfer or use, that reflect an exchange of value and that cross country borders.’ The synthesis is based on GI ACE publications produced between 2020 and February 2026, including research reports, journal articles, books, and policy briefs.

Four key themes emerge from this body of research, which are summarised below:

Patchy effectiveness of the current global AML regime
Centrality of professional enablers
Rapid adaptation to new laws and enforcement
Key areas for strengthening policy and regulatory responses

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Cover of a GI ACE report titled ‘Fighting illicit financial flows: key learnings from GI ACE research’ by Devi Pillay, with University of Sussex and Centre for the Study of Corruption logos, labelled ‘GI ACE Report, April 2026’