Ecorys contributing to tackling serious and organised crime in the EU

Serious and organised crime poses a persistent and evolving security threat to the European Union. Complex and agile criminal networks operate in the shadows of the law and increasingly exploit the online environment to expand their reach and evade detection. Europol’s latest Serious and Organised Crime Threat Assessment (SOCTA) 2025 outlines how transnational organised crime operates — destabilising society, thriving in online environments, and accelerating through AI and emerging technologies.  

At Ecorys, we recognise the significance of Europol’s SOCTA publication and frequently collaborate with Europol and other relevant organisations in this field. We observe that organised crime is increasingly linked to hybrid threat actors, who undermine democratic societies, the rule of law, and the overall sense of security in the EU. These actors often exploit geopolitical instability and conflicts beyond Europe, resulting in serious spillover effects across European societies. 

At Ecorys, we work alongside national governments, European institutions, international organisations and law enforcement agencies to tackle these multifaceted threats. Our expertise spans the entire policy cycle — from in-depth research, evaluations, and impact assessments to strategic advice, capacity building, and tailored training and workshops. 

With our experience addressing cross-border security challenges, we are committed to helping policymakers and practitioners design and implement effective responses to transnational organised crime. 

Looking to explore how we can support your work? Download our brochure here and/or get in touch with our team.