Money laundering is increasingly becoming an issue of concern to the international community, as the states have realized that the harmonious activity of all international actors through the observance of the foreseen international standards is the most effective way of combating this type of crime. International documents have established a basic framework of activities for combating money laundering. This paper is focused on the analysis of the activities of international entities and their role in creating international standards in this field, as well as the impact of money laundering on various aspects of society and countries. In this connection, the paper first explains the international entities, then states their roles and all the most important international documents and then the results of the money laundering risk assessment in the Republic of Serbia with special emphasis on the criminal offenses with high degree threats for money laundering. Furthermore, it points to the importance of international entities and standards for the establishment of national systems that will be able to respond to the effects of money laundering and thereby create a successful financial system. Finally, the paper concludes that without the existence of international standards and activities of the international entities, appropriate conditions for effective combating of money laundering cannot be created, thereby providing more favorable conditions for the free flow of people and capital, as well as easier management of financial systems.