Financial Crime World

CABO VERDE’S INSTITUTIONS FACE CHALLENGES AS COVID-19 PANDEMIC STRAINS SYSTEM

Introduction

Praia, Cabo Verde - As the world grapples with the devastating impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, Cabo Verde is facing unprecedented challenges to its institutions, particularly in the areas of law enforcement and economic management.

Challenges to Institutions

  • The country’s armed forces and Office of the President have traditionally enjoyed a high level of trust among citizens.
  • However, the economic fallout from the pandemic has taken a significant toll on the nation’s institutions, increasing the risk of corruption and the potential influence of organized criminal groups.
  • Cabo Verde relies heavily on international cooperation to address various challenges, including combating drug trafficking and strengthening its maritime monitoring capabilities.

Judicial System

  • The judicial system is considered independent, but it faces challenges related to:
    • Capacity: inadequate resources and personnel
    • Access to justice: limited access to legal services for marginalized communities
    • Protection of citizens’ legal rights: susceptibility to intimidation by foreign criminal actors
  • While there have been notable prosecutions in cases related to human trafficking, reports indicate that the judiciary is vulnerable to external influences.

Law Enforcement

  • The Cabo Verde National Police has implemented community policing strategies to combat crime and enhance public safety.
  • However, enforcement of legislation criminalizing online child sexual abuse materials remains weak due to:
    • Inadequate staffing
    • Resource limitations
  • This hinders police presence throughout the country, making it difficult to identify victims, investigate crimes, and collect comprehensive data.

Economic Challenges

  • Cabo Verde has experienced its largest contraction on record, with inflationary pressures reaching peak levels.
  • The government has suspended plans to privatize state-owned enterprises to address high public sector debt resulting from the pandemic.

Efforts to Combat Trafficking and Protect Victims

  • The government has implemented measures to identify and protect victims of trafficking, as well as programs to prevent human trafficking.
  • Civil society remains active in prevention efforts, but there is a decline in press freedom over the years.
  • Operational procedures and training programs for victim identification and protection plans have been adopted.

Recommendations

As Cabo Verde navigates these challenges, it is clear that the country’s institutions face significant hurdles in maintaining trust and effectiveness. To address these issues, the government must:

  • Prioritize reforms and investments to address the root causes of corruption.
  • Improve law enforcement capabilities through increased staffing and resource allocation.
  • Strengthen economic management to ensure a brighter future for its citizens.

By addressing these challenges, Cabo Verde can work towards building stronger institutions that serve its people effectively and promote stability in the region.