Countering Organized Crime
The University Signs Agreements with Russian Institutions to Train Specialists in Anti-Corruption and Anti-Money Laundering Efforts
On April 30, the Rector of the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Roberto Medronho, signed a cooperation agreement with the International Training and Methodology Centre for Financial Monitoring (ITMCFM), established by the Federal Financial Monitoring Service. This collaborative effort aims to train professionals skilled in the fight against money laundering and corruption among public officials.
Previously, prosecutor Fabio Correa, coordinator of the Specialized Executive Group against Organized Crime of the Public Prosecutor’s Office of Rio de Janeiro, met with Alexander Korolev, Consul of Russia, and Irina Shilina, ITMCFM Deputy Director General and Head of Department for Coordination of Research and Educational Projects, to discuss experience sharing methods and educational resources.
Representatives from the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, who attended the finals of the International Olympiad on Financial Security in Sochi last year, anticipate another meeting this year with finalists from 35 countries. Two years ago, 10 students from the Brazilian University participated in the Olympiad, with Isaac Carvalho from the Mathematics Institute becoming one of the winners. In 2023, international relations graduate Sofia Vieira once again represented Brazil. Additionally, students had the privilege of meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, while National Law School student Augusto Lemmertz received the opportunity to speak with the President.
From April 29th to May 1st, the University’s Technology Center hosted the International Workshop on Financial Security which featured lectures, seminars, and master classes, as well as a review of prospects and career opportunities for students and young professionals. This event provided a platform for students to explore emerging career paths that demand interdisciplinary knowledge to advance innovation in law enforcement, regulation, and international collaboration.
The evolution of communication technologies and new payment methods, including the global proliferation of cryptocurrencies, has exacerbated criminal activities such as money laundering, corruption, terrorism financing, social media fraud, Ponzi schemes, and fraudulent investment practices. This complexity makes it challenging to monitor, trace, and regulate financial crimes. Educating specialists fosters a cooperative and regulated environment that bolsters national security and promotes financial integrity.
Following the agreement with ITMCFM, the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro declared its intent to become the first university in Latin America to join the International Network AML/CFT Institute, which encompasses over 50 universities from Russia and Eurasian countries. Vice Chancellor Cassia Turci and Russian Consul Alexander Korolev were also present at the signing.
For Prof. Fabio Krykhtine, Special Coordinator for International Relations with the Russian Federation, the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro assumes a pivotal role as a hub for research and education on financial security in Brazil.
“Rio de Janeiro can play a significant role in this arena through collaboration between international agencies and financial intelligence units,” remarked Prof. Krykhtine.
Source: https://conexao.ufrj.br/2024/05/contra-o-crime-organizado/
