Organized Crime and Corruption in Argentina: A Comprehensive Report

Overview

Argentina is a country plagued by organized crime and corruption. Here are some key points to understand the scope of this issue:

• Organized crime groups operate across various regions, engaging in extortion, drug trafficking, money laundering, and car theft.
• Foreign organized crime groups from Mexico, Colombia, and Brazil are also active in Argentina’s illicit drug market and arms trafficking.

Leadership and Governance

Corruption is widespread in Argentina, with many citizens losing trust in state institutions. Key findings include:

• The presidency is seen as the most corrupt governmental body, according to polls.
• Efforts to improve transparency have been made, but corruption remains a concern at the municipal level.

Criminal Justice and Security

Argentina’s judicial system faces challenges, including:

• Corruption and inefficiency, with low trust among citizens.
• The police force is generally more trustworthy than the government and judiciary, although there are accusations of officers offering protection to drug traffickers and money launderers.
• Poor prison conditions due to overcrowding, poor hygiene, and deficient food.

Economic and Financial Environment

Argentina’s anti-money laundering legislation has been in place for many years, but its mechanisms have been criticized as deficient. The country is considered a high-risk country for money laundering and terrorist financing.

Civil Society and Social Protection

• Argentina has a well-established system to provide assistance to trafficking victims, although there have been declines in prosecution and protection efforts due to corruption.
• The government has implemented strategies to prevent organized crime, human trafficking, and cybercrime, including awareness campaigns and working groups.
• Several NGOs are involved in the fight against organized crime in Argentina, and the national media operates relatively freely.