Social and economic factors of criminal offenses in transport security

Abstract

This scientific article is devoted to a deep and comprehensive analysis of the social and economic factors that significantly influence the dynamics and nature of criminal offenses in the field of transport security in Ukraine during the period 2020-2025. The work presents generalized conclusions and a detailed overview of statistical data illustrating key changes in the structure and dynamics of transport crimes. Special attention is paid to studying the impact of the armed conflict that began in 2022 on the criminogenic situation in the transport sector, highlighting new challenges and peculiarities that arose as a result, including the increasing number of thefts, looting, and illegal transportation of goods in frontline areas, as well as the activation of criminal groups that exploit complicated logistics and the security situation for their purposes. The study examines how changes in the social environment caused by the war, such as forced displacement, the breakdown of social ties, and psychological tension, contribute to the increase in crime levels in transport. Within the study framework, key determinants of crime in the transport sector have been identified and systematized, including unemployment, migration processes, social stratification, and changes in the economic conjuncture. It analyzes how rising unemployment and declining living standards push specific segments of the population to illegal actions in transport, and how migration flows create new conditions for criminal groups, including cross-border crime and human trafficking. The impact of the shadow economy and corruption schemes on increasing transport crime is examined particularly by creating favorable conditions for smuggling, illegal arms and drug trafficking, and illicit passenger and cargo transportation. Emphasis is placed on identifying regional peculiarities of these factors' manifestation, considering geographical location and the degree of impact by military actions. Based on the results, a set of practical measures to counteract and prevent these offenses is proposed, which can be implemented at both the legislative and practical levels.