In contrast to a globalizing approach to "transnational organized crime," this edited volume studies socio-historical environments in which mafia-esque violence has found a fertile ground for growth and development within the political arena. The various chapters explore empirical data showing how politico-criminal configurations emerge, are formed and allow for interactions between powerful official stakeholders and "professionals of the use of force." Links between military know-how and political power in Indonesia, Pakistan and Turkey; the conversion of "violent entrepreneurs" into the Russian or Bulgarian political arena; the political racketeering activities of leaders of armed nationalist movements in Corsica; interactions between the Calabrese mafia and business; investment by the Belizean government in illegal activities; or else, monetary "illegalism" in the Somalia conflict... The various chapters of this book encourage a comparative approach to the study of mafia violence in the making and running of State power.

In contrast to a globalizing approach to 'transnational organized crime,' this edited volume studies socio-historical environments in which mafia-esque violence has found a fertile ground for growth and development within the political arena.