The course gives students a comprehensive understanding of contemporary patterns and characteristics of transnational organized crime, illicit markets and trafficking activities. It does so through a broad set of analytical tools, that are not limited to criminal justice, but rather include political science, international relations, political economy and political sociology. After offering an overview of what and how we know about organized crime, we will examine variations in its contemporary forms in the international arena, addressing key questions related to geopolitical stability and instability – therefore debating the nexus with state fragility, development and security (terrorism).