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This article examines money laundering and terrorist financing from both a conceptual framework as well as the regulations that attempt to combat its use. A historical perspective of money laundering provides context on its origins, evolution, and anti-money laundering efforts. After a review of the money laundering process, anti-money laundering efforts in the United States are examined through the end of the twentieth century as well as the rise of international terrorism. The impact of September 11, 2001 on anti-money laundering efforts is then examined along with identifying links between human and drug trafficking with terrorist financing. The article concludes with emerging technologies that may have a significant impact on both money laundering and anti-money laundering efforts as they apply to the threat of terrorism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article is an editor's introduction to a special issue of the American Behavioral Scientist journal on terrorism in the 21st century. The editor, Harvey W. Kushner, explains that the issue was published shortly before the September 11, 2001 attacks, making the topic even more relevant. Kushner had to put his own contribution on hold due to his involvement in the U.S. Embassy Bombing trial. He then invited back contributors from the original issue to reassess their thoughts on terrorism after 9/11. The special issue includes articles on the future of terrorism, personal reflections on terrorism research, right-wing extremism, counterterrorism studies, and the impact of 9/11 on money laundering. The goal of the issue is to stimulate dialogue, understanding, and further research on terrorism in the new millennium. [Extracted from the article]