Financial Action Task Force (FATF) Mutual Evaluation

• Basic knowledge of Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Counter-Terrorist Financing (CFT) principles and practices

Audience

• Compliance officers
• Policymakers
• Assessors
• Legal professionals

The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) Mutual Evaluation is a comprehensive review process used to assess a country's implementation and effectiveness of measures to combat money laundering, terrorist financing, and proliferation financing.

This instructor-led, live training (online or onsite) is aimed at intermediate-level legal professionals who wish to gain a deep understanding of the mutual evaluation process, from preparation to follow-up, with practical applications and real-world case studies.

By the end of this training, participants will be able to:

• Gain an in-depth understanding of the FATF Recommendations, including technical compliance and effectiveness criteria.
• Learn how to effectively prepare for a mutual evaluation, including organizing national efforts, gathering documentation, and engaging stakeholders.
• Develop skills to conduct thorough and accurate on-site evaluations, including interview techniques, data collection, and stakeholder engagement.
• Utilize advanced analytical techniques and tools to support the mutual evaluation process.

Format of the Course

• Interactive lecture and discussion.
• Lots of exercises and practice.
• Hands-on implementation in a live-lab environment.

Course Customization Options

• To request a customized training for this course, please contact us to arrange.

Introduction

Overview of FATF

• History and objectives of FATF
• Structure and membership
• Role in global AML/CFT standards

Understanding FATF Recommendations

• Detailed review of the 40 FATF Recommendations
• Key concepts: Risk-Based Approach, Technical Compliance, and Effectiveness

Introduction to Mutual Evaluations

• Purpose and importance of mutual evaluations
• Key stages in the mutual evaluation process

Preparing for a Mutual Evaluation

• Pre-evaluation activities and national coordination
• Role of the national assessment team
• Collecting and organizing relevant data and documentation

Assessing Technical Compliance

• Detailed explanation of technical compliance criteria
• Gathering evidence for compliance assessment

Effectiveness Assessment

• Understanding effectiveness ratings
• Evaluating outcomes: immediate outcomes and core issues

Planning and Conducting On-Site Visits

• Developing an on-site visit plan
• Techniques for effective interviews and data collection
• Role-playing exercises and mock interviews

Stakeholder Engagement

• Engaging with government agencies, financial institutions, and other stakeholders
• Ensuring cooperation and transparency
• Addressing challenges and conflicts

Drafting the Mutual Evaluation Report

• Structure and components of the report
• Writing clear and concise findings

Review and Feedback Process

• FATF Plenary and the review process
• Addressing feedback and making revisions
• Ensuring the quality and accuracy of the final report

Follow-Up and Monitoring

• Understanding the follow-up process
• Preparing for follow-up assessments and progress reports
• Implementing recommendations and making improvements

Continuous Improvement and Best Practices

• Learning from past evaluations
• Sharing best practices and experiences
• Developing action plans for ongoing compliance and effectiveness

Advanced Analytical Techniques

• Data analysis and interpretation for mutual evaluations
• Using technology and tools for data management and reporting

Summary and Next Steps