Cash movement refers to transferring funds across borders or within countries for violent extremist groups or individuals.
During the peak of the conflicts in Syria and Iraq, violent religious extremist groups continued to use dominantly cash. In Montenegro, Salafi-jihadists typically moved cash through intermediaries and couriers based in Austria, Türkiye, Sweden and Switzerland. Austria has been a key hub for fundraising events disguised as humanitarian gatherings. Many of these took place in Vienna and Graz, due to their large diaspora communities from the Western Balkans. The funds have been used to provide financial incentives to potential recruits, including monthly salaries reportedly reaching up to US$1 700, typically targeting low-income individuals.11
11Interview with a security sector professional in Podgorica, Montenegro, July 2024.