The Role of U.S. Special Operations Forces (SOF) to Combat Transnational Organized Crime (TOC) as an Evolving Threat to International Security

Transnational Organized Crime (TOC) is evolving and diversifying activities globally presenting persistent threats to security and governance. TOC growth parallels globalization trends including technology, communications, and transportation advances that facilitate geographically dispersed connected networks. Combating TOC (CTOC) requires integrated approaches that incorporate diverse resources, authorities, and permissions across elements of national power. Constraints related to political will, interoperability, and capacity continue to limit multilateral cooperative activities. The U.S. government should take a leadership role, forging international cooperation through efforts to build capacity and integrate diverse capabilities toward common objectives while integrating U.S. Special Operations Forces’ capabilities into CTOC efforts globally.