BVI Financial Services Commission releases revised Handbook on International Cooperation
Why international cooperation matters
International cooperation plays a vital role in fighting organised crime, which often transcends national borders and relies on exploiting legitimate institutions to mask illicit activities. Criminal networks use these means to fund further unlawful undertakings, making cross-border collaboration essential in the global fight against such threats. The BVI recognises that efficient crime prevention requires countries to work together in robust and multifaceted ways, ensuring no jurisdiction becomes a safe haven for those engaged in criminal activities.
Mechanisms such as mutual legal assistance and extradition exemplify how countries can collectively pursue justice. By facilitating the extradition of fugitives or sharing critical legal intelligence, jurisdictions can protect their communities and ensure the stability of their financial systems. Over the past three decades, the BVI has prioritised these efforts by continuously refining its cooperation regimes to align with international standards and developments.
The global nature of organised crime extends its reach into regulated markets, with examples such as tax evasion, securities manipulation, insider trading, and corporate abuse. These activities threaten the integrity of financial systems and undermine investor confidence. To counter this, the BVI's cooperation frameworks not only protect domestic interests but also contribute to safeguarding global economic stability.
A testament to the BVI's commitment
The Handbook on International Co-operation and Information Exchange serves as a vital resource for regulators, judicial officials and law enforcement. With structures designed to uphold the integrity of the Territory's legal and financial frameworks, it showcases the BVI’s proactive and collaborative stance in combating crime across borders. By implementing such measures, the BVI bolsters its dedication to maintaining a secure and stable financial environment.
The revised Handbook offers a comprehensive guide to its methods of international cooperation and information-sharing protocols.
The official press release can be found here and the Handbook here.