Colombia’s Institutions Struggle to Contain Illegal Activities

As Colombia continues to recover from decades of conflict, its institutions are struggling to contain illegal activities that have become deeply ingrained in its society.

Small-Scale Credits and Grey Area Lending

Despite efforts by the government to weaken criminal groups, particularly after the peace deal with FARC, small-scale credits known as “gota a gota” continue to thrive. These loans are often controlled by larger criminal organizations and are acquired by individuals who cannot access traditional banking or credit options. Additionally, businesses and enterprises are profiting from the grey area of lending money, offering their services through social media and apps.

Government Inefficiencies

The Colombian government has been criticized for its inefficiency in implementing peace deals and recommendations, which has contributed to security concerns. The country’s high levels of corruption and impunity have also led to a lack of trust in state bodies.

• In 2021, Colombia experienced its highest number of violent homicides in seven years, with particularly chaotic situations in the Valle del Cauca department and Cali.
• The ongoing humanitarian crisis resulting from conflicts between non-state armed groups has further exacerbated the situation.

Judicial System Weaknesses

The judicial system in Colombia is considered stable and diverse, but it suffers from weak due process and a lack of adequate protection. Corruption scandals have also plagued the Supreme Court, the country’s highest court.

• The penitentiary system is another area of concern, with constant scandals of contraband and other illicit activities inside prisons where personnel and other authorities appear to be accomplices.
• Inmates have even been recorded extorting money from people from within prisons, apparently with the knowledge of authorities.

Security Forces Struggle

Colombia has specialized units to combat organized crime, but due to challenging terrain, corruption, and inefficiencies within the system, security forces struggle to effectively combat criminal activity.

• The country’s efforts to collaborate with the international community, particularly with the US, are seen as a step in the right direction.
• However, more needs to be done to address the root causes of illegal activities and to strengthen institutions to prevent corruption and impunity.

Civil Society Plays Vital Role

Colombia’s civil society plays a vital role in analyzing and preventing organized-crime activities in the country. Crime-related observatories and NGOs are working to help vulnerable youths escape gangs, despite threats and violence against them.

• However, Colombia remains one of the most dangerous countries for journalists and environmental activists, who are frequently targeted with death threats, physical attacks, abduction, and murder.
• The government’s failure to protect human rights defenders and activists has also been criticized.

Conclusion

While efforts are being made to combat illegal activities in Colombia, the country’s institutions must do more to address corruption, impunity, and inefficiency if they are to effectively prevent organized crime and promote a safer society for all citizens.