Money Laundering as a Criminal Phenomenon: A Case Study – The Republic of North Macedonia

Abstract Money laundering refers to the process of concealing the origins of illicitly obtained income derived from unlawful activities, with the aim of integrating such proceeds into the legitimate financial system. This criminal phenomenon affects all countries without exception, including the Republic of North Macedonia (RNM). Given the substantial adverse effects that money laundering imposes on economic stability and integrity, states must devote particular attention to developing effective mechanisms for its prevention and suppression. This paper examines the concept of money laundering and the principal methods through which it is perpetrated, with specific emphasis on the situation in the Republic of North Macedonia. It analyzes the detrimental economic consequences of this phenomenon, as well as the legal framework regulating and sanctioning such conduct. In addition, the paper presents the most recent data published by the State Statistical Office of the Republic of North Macedonia concerning this issue. These data are displayed in tabular form, illustrating the dynamics and volume of money-laundering–related indicators over a five-year period. Based on the analysis conducted, the paper concludes with a set of findings and recommendations directly related to the researched topic. The methodological approach of the study incorporates a range of research methods, including analysis, deduction, comparison, statistical techniques, and observation. The significance of this paper is reflected in both its theoretical and practical contributions. Theoretically, it enriches the existing scholarly literature in the field; practically, it provides professionals employed in institutions responsible for combating economic crime with insights that may enhance their work and inform evidence-based practice.