Global Organized Crime vs. Governments: A Comparison of Strength and Influence

Introduction

The relationship between organized crime and government authority has long been a subject of intrigue and concern. While governments typically hold the upper hand in terms of legal and political power, some criminal organizations manage to operate with significant influence and, in some cases, even challenge governmental authority. This comparison explores the strength and influence of various organized crime groups and their impact on government operations.

Facing the Dominance of Governments

When it comes to organized crime and government power, the perception among many is that governments often hold the upper hand. However, in several cases, governments have been heavily influenced or even overtaken by criminal elements. In this section, we'll delve into some notorious examples.

1. Russia: A Criminal Dominated State

When it comes to states where the lines between law enforcement and criminal activities blur significantly, Russia stands out. The Russian government, led by President Putin, has been accused of deep-rooted corruption, with many of Putin's close friends and associates holding billions in assets. One example is how three of Putin's oldest friends, listed in the Panama Papers, hold investments ranging from $1.8 to $3.8 billion. Yet, these individuals earn less than $30,000 annually. It's clear that Putin has used this wealth to finance various political campaigns, including the U.S. election scheme to purchase an American President.

2. Venezuela: Self-Appointed Dictators

Another example is Venezuela, where the political landscape is marred by fraud and intimidation. The self-proclaimed president, Maduro, did not win the election and relies heavily on his coercive tactics to maintain power, a stance that the United States does not recognize. Even more concerning is how shortly before his presidency, Maduro was a fugitive with a $15 million reward on his head for drug trafficking over the last 20 years.

3. Mexico: Cartels as Part of the State Apparatus

In Mexico, the line between cartels and government officials is particularly blurred. The former Army Chief was arrested in L.A. by the DEA, highlighting how the cartels have deep roots within the military and law enforcement agencies. Entire regions in Mexico are effectively run by cartels, making it difficult for the government to exert control. This has led to a situation where the cartels and government, military, and law enforcement agencies are essentially the same.

The Accelerating Power of Organized Crime

Organized crime's influence doesn't stop with traditional governments; it has also infiltrated modern institutions such as social media and pharmaceutical industries. Here's an exploration of how organized crime has expanded its reach into these areas.

Facing the Dominance of Social Media

The power dynamics between organized crime and governments are further complicated by the rise of social media. Social media platforms have been used by criminal organizations to spread misinformation, coordinate illegal activities, and undermine political processes. As platforms like Twitter and Facebook become more integrated into daily life, the influence of these criminal enterprises grows, posing new challenges to government authorities.

The Role of Media in Influence and Deception

Mainstream media has also been accused of complicity with organized crime. While media can provide vital information and hold governments accountable, it has often been manipulated to spread disinformation and foster political instability. This is especially evident in recent years, where fake news and propaganda have been used to manipulate public opinion and undermine democratic processes.

Big Pharma and Organized Crime

In the healthcare industry, Big Pharma has long been accused of relying on organized crime for various activities, including the production and distribution of illegal drugs. This collaboration allows criminal organizations to profit from the illegal drug trade while maintaining a facade of legal activity in the healthcare sector.

Conclusion

While governments remain the ultimate authorities, the influence of organized crime cannot be understated. Cases in countries like Russia, Venezuela, and Mexico demonstrate that the lines between criminal organizations and state apparatuses can often blur, leading to unconstitutional and corrupt practices. The accelerating power of social media, mainstream media influence, and the role of Big Pharma further complicate the dynamics between organized crime and governments. Understanding these complexities is crucial for developing effective strategies to combat organized crime and restore public trust in governance.