Introduction to Anti-Money Laundering Law & Compliance: An International and Regional Perspective

About this course

Additional course information

• Further course description, study trips and more

  The course will incorporate international and regional perspectives, taught by subject matter experts from various regions who will engage participants in seminar-style sessions and working groups to discuss pertinent laws and compliance frameworks. Upon completion of the course, students will possess the requisite knowledge and tools essential for compliance with AML regulations, comprehending the pivotal role such compliance plays within the broader ethical framework of the legal profession. Furthermore, the course aims to prepare students for a career as Anti-Money Laundering Compliance Officers, addressing the current shortage in this profession.

  Excursions constitute an important component of this course, offering a unique academic experience. Presently, no international court exclusively addresses financial crimes; nevertheless, a discernible trend within international courts indicates a proclivity to integrate explicit mandates with global initiatives combatting money laundering. As part of this enriching program, we will coordinate visits to two prominent courts that have been at the forefront of mainstreaming AML issues: a morning session at the International Criminal Court, including a visit to the Office of the Prosecutor, and an afternoon discussion at the International Court of Justice focusing on the ongoing AML case, Equatorial Guinea v. France.

  As an added highlight, one of the course instructors will launch a book on AML compliance in the legal profession, enhancing the scholarly depth of the course.

• Forms of tuition and assessment

  Students will be taught through Seminars (5 x 3-hour seminars); Working groups ( 4 x 2-hour working groups); Study visits (The Hague: International Court of Justice and the International Criminal Court).

  The course will be assessed through simulations where students will collaborate in groups to dissect a case study and subsequently present their findings on Day 4.

• About the course coordinator

  Prosper S. Maguchu is the coordinator of a course on Anti-Money Laundering (AML), which he has introduced and teaches at various universities. A certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist, Prosper has extensive expertise in financial crime regulation, legal education, and anti-corruption initiatives. His commitment to advancing AML knowledge is reflected in his work with legal professionals, service providers, and regulators. By blending academic rigor with practical insights, Prosper helps students and professionals navigate the complexities of AML compliance and stay informed on the evolving legal and regulatory landscape.

• Learning objectives

  By the end of this course students will be able to:

  • Analyze the structure and key principles of international AML law.
  • Identify the major international organizations and treaties shaping global AML frameworks.
  • Differentiate between various sources of legal basis for AML compliance, including domestic legislation, international agreements, and regulatory guidance and evaluate the interplay between international standards and national implementation.
  • Explain the critical responsibilities of legal professionalss in upholding AML regulations.
  • Analyze ethical considerations for legal professionals supporting AML compliance efforts. 
  • Identify and assess the main methods for achieving AML compliance within organizations.
  • Develop an appreciation for the future evolution of AML compliance, including emerging trends, regulatory changes, and the impact of technological advancements on AML practices.

• Preliminary Syllabus

  Here you can download the preliminary course syllabus for 2024.

  ^{*Please note that it is a preliminary syllabus and that it might be subject to some change before the course starts.}