In an attempt to stem the tide of organized crime in the former Soviet bloc, the U.S. is considering offering Hungarian informants sanctuary in the federal witness protection program. While Hungary is considering instituting such a program, it currently lacks the financial resources to provide effective protection.

The growth of organized crime activity has been staggering since the collapse of the Soviet Union, and Hungary has been terrorized by over 150 bombings since 1991. The country has also been the scene of a number of high-profile murders, including the killing of a Bulgarian diplomat. Officials estimate that over 30% of the Hungarian economy is "black."

Cooperation between Hungarian officials and the FBI is increasing. The FBI believes that many Eastern European organized crime rings have ties in the U.S. The FBI also operates an international law enforcement school in Budapest, where police from across Eastern Europe are trained in U.S. style crime solving methods.

The FBI is also involved in giving aid to Hungarian police investigating major crimes. A separate team of experts is helping the Hungarian Parliament draft organized crime laws that are similar to the U.S. Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act.

Efforts are also being made to control crime at a community level with the institution of community policing and neighborhood watch groups.