Organized crime is a major problem in most European countries. Still, there is no generally accepted definition of organized crime. In combating organized crime, it is essential to collect and systematically analyze information about organized crime. The development of a precise policy for countering organized crime across national boundaries requires an internationally recognized definition of organized crime. Since there is no common definition of organized crime among European countries, data from the various countries are difficult to compare. There are also differences in judicial systems, in police registration methods, in the recording of criminal offenses, and in police activities. What the countries have in common is an understanding of the characteristics of the ways in which organized criminal groups operate. Thus, the perceived characteristics of organized crime operations in the various countries can be used to develop a future definition of organized crime. Efforts at international cooperation in the search for new strategies and tactics for countering organized crime have not been very fruitful to date. 2 notes