The volume of illegal betting in the world of sports reaches 1.7 trillion dollars. This is stated in a new report published by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime. This is the first report that concerns corruption in sports. It gives an idea of the stunning scales of bribery and financial fraud in the world of sports at the global, regional and national levels.
“Corruption in sports – a phenomenon is not new, fraudulent actions in connection with sports competitions were observed in the days of the ancient Olympic Games, but over the past two decades, criminal activities in this area have increased significantly,” the UN Press release says.
The new report was developed in partnership with almost 200 experts. It presents the deepest current review of the situation with crime in sports. Among the experts were representatives of governments, sports organizations, private sector, academic circles and other stakeholders. They not only investigated the problems, but also offered a methodology for effective fight against crime and corruption.
The document discusses a wide range of issues, experts analyzed illegal rates, manipulation during competitions, abuses in sports, form of corruption during major sporting events and involvement in organized crime sports.
The document was presented on the occasion of the International Day to Combat Corruption and on the eve of the session of the Conference of the UN Convention State Parties against Corruption, which is currently in Egypt.