Opiates and Methamphetamine Trafficking on the Balkan Route

This research publication follows an initial assessment made in the 2015 UNODC publication Drug Money: the illicit proceeds of opiates trafficked on the Balkan route. The new research is an initial step toward assessing the volume and overall value of opiate and methamphetamine trafficking along the Balkan route, which originates in Afghanistan and passes through Iran (Islamic Republic of), Türkiye, and Southeastern Europe to reach Western and Central Europe. Specifically, the report estimates the illicit income generated by opiate and methamphetamine trafficking across the 32 countries along the route, identifies the nature and scope of trafficking flows, and explores laundering schemes. While providing insights into the associated IFFs, the exact magnitude and direction of these flows remain difficult to determine. This report also aims to contribute to measuring progress towards Sustainable Development Goal 16.4, which aims to significantly reduce illicit financial and arms flows, strengthen the recovery and return of stolen assets, and combat all forms of organized crime.