Organized crime has many impacts, from economic to social. The human trafficking trade is a significant source of funds for organised crime groups, and the networks they use are global. Trafficked children and women are sold to brothel owners, pimps, and other merchants. Eventually, these commodities are sold to the end user, who then rents out the commodities to customers. In return, these people are paid a percentage of the payment, which may not be paid to the person who rented them.
The rise of globalization has facilitated the growth of organised crime groups and gangs. While links between mafias have been in place for decades, more recent technological advances have made it easier to conduct these activities internationally. These networks are increasingly transnational, and are often associated with international smuggling of illicit goods. They can span continents, and often involve former law enforcement officials. They can even be transnational, involving both state institutions and smuggling of narcotics.
The definition of organized crime has changed over time. Some definitions emphasize co-offending, while others focus on criminal organizations that have wider influence. In addition to crime, organized crime has also been linked to economic sectors and territorial control. The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime defines organized crime as a group of three or more people who collaborate to carry out a criminal activity. However, some definitions are a bit fuzzy.
