Harmonization

Harrmonization refers to attempts to provide uniformity across diverse jurisdictions. The strengths and limitations of harmonization can be ascertained by examining the pitfalls and benefits associated with such trends. Separate jurisdictions frequently have different laws, policies, and law-enforcement practices. Attempts to harmonize laws, regulations, and practices are increasingly evident in countries with federal systems of governance (as in the states and territories of Australia, with their standardized laws, polities, and practices), in regions striving for improved forms of integration (for example, across the member countries of the European Union), and in relation to attempts to create global consensus around issues such as international terrorism, the illicit drug trade, and cybercrime-through, for example, the adoption of common definitions and protocols within the context of United Nations (UN) agencies.