Economic Growth and Crime: A European Perspective

You're walking through a bustling city in Europe, wondering how economic progress influences financial crimes. This study takes a close look at 27 EU countries from 2005 to 2020. By using a method called Pooled OLS, researchers discovered some interesting patterns. As societies become more developed and sustainable, you see less corruption, less hidden economy, and fewer cybercrimes. However, there's a catch. The same development also increases something called money laundering. Understanding these changes can help governments tackle crime more effectively. But why does this happen? Think about it. As societies grow wealthier, they can afford better education and technology, which cuts down on cheating and hiding money. But with more money flowing, people find new ways to hide it. This isn't just about numbers; it's about understanding what makes societies tick.