Argentina’s Criminal Landscape: Key Challenges and Concerns

Criminal Networks

• Argentina is home to a complex web of domestic and transnational criminal networks.
• Groups like the Loza and Castedo clans operate alongside actors from countries such as Mexico, Colombia, China, and Brazil.

Corruption

• Widespread corruption affects local police forces, politicians, and even family clans in Argentina.
• This corruption hinders efforts to combat organized crime and undermines trust in authorities.

Mafia-Style Groups

• While not traditionally associated with mafia-style groups, Argentina has seen a growth of family clans akin to mafia operating in the drug and arms trafficking markets.
• These groups often engage in violent activities and have significant influence over local communities.

Leadership and Governance

• The current administration has lost momentum in combating organized crime, leading to low trust in authorities.
• High-level political figures are allegedly involved in corruption and money laundering, further eroding public confidence.

Criminal Justice and Security

• Argentina’s judicial system is inefficient and corrupt, with a unit dedicated to countering organized crime facing challenges due to political interference.
• Prisons are overcrowded, and living conditions are poor, creating an environment conducive to continued criminal activity.

Economic and Financial Environment

• Argentina has anti-money-laundering legislation but lacks a comprehensive strategy to combat money laundering.
• Legitimate business operates free from criminal activity, but doing business is difficult due to burdensome regulatory capacity.

Civil Society and Social Protection

• The government has a robust framework in place to provide support to victims of trafficking, including a national witness protection agency.
• However, concerns exist regarding funding for anti-trafficking programs, highlighting the need for continued investment and support.