Explanation
The term “clan crime” is primarily used in Germany and describes offenses attributed to large kinship-based groups, often portrayed in connection with migrant communities. It typically refers to activities such as drug trafficking, robbery, or extortion. However, the concept is controversial: it risks stigmatizing entire families or ethnic groups through “guilt by association” and reinforcing xenophobic stereotypes. From a criminological perspective, clan crime represents only a small fraction of overall crime, while forms of organized crime and white-collar crime cause far greater harm.
Theoretical Reference
The concept of clan crime is linked to debates on moral panics, migration, and discrimination. It illustrates how political and media narratives shape the perception of crime and can contribute to selective law enforcement.