Basel’s Quick Guide 42: Non-Conviction-Based Confiscation explains how authorities can recover illicit assets without a conviction while protecting due process and property rights

This guide explains the concept of non-conviction-based confiscation (also called civil forfeiture or non-conviction forfeiture), outlining how it allows states to seize or recover assets linked to crime without securing a criminal conviction. It also explores the benefits of this approach (preventing criminals from keeping illicit gains) alongside the challenges and risks (such as human rights concerns and political misuse) and provides guidance on designing laws that ensure fairness, transparency and effectiveness…