Estudos Críticos da Paz e Crime Organizado Transnacional

Abstract

This article aims to understand how key concepts in Peace Studies (PS), particularly its critical approach, can be useful in the analytical understanding of the ills inherent to Transnational Organized Crime (TOC). The article is structured in three parts. First, the differences between PS in its conventional and critical aspects is explored, followed by an analysis of TOC as a broad threat to peace that affects societies, be they in conflict or stable. Prior to the final considerations, the third part re‑examines categories and conceptual frameworks of PS in the light of TOC, comparing other works and showing their limitations in understanding organized crime. This structure of reflection allows us to discuss critical analytical possibilities that encompass a consistent explanation of TOC in light of the conception of violence as proposed by Johan Galtung.

Keywords

• drugs
• illicit networks
• organized crime
• Peace Studies
• violence