Guinea-Bissau: Corruption and Criminal Networks Undermine Stability

Portuguese-speaking Guinea-Bissau has long struggled with corruption and organized crime, which has eroded public confidence in its government. The country’s instability is perpetuated by the protection afforded to criminal markets, including cocaine trafficking and illicit logging.

Instability and Corruption

A recent attack on the Governmental Palace, which resulted in the death of 11 individuals, was allegedly connected to cocaine trafficking, according to President José Mário Vaz. However, evidence supporting this claim remains patchy. The dissolution of the National Assembly by the president in May 2022 has further contributed to the country’s instability.

Political protection of criminal markets is granted with impunity, and the response to organized crime remains weak and ineffective. Guinea-Bissau has ratified international treaties and conventions against organized crime and corruption, but its international cooperation on these issues is perceived as weak.

Criminal Networks Flourish

• Cocaine trafficking is a major concern in Guinea-Bissau, with criminal networks operating with impunity.
• The country’s porous borders and lack of effective law enforcement make it an attractive transshipment point for drugs destined for Europe.
• Illicit logging is another significant problem, with criminals exploiting the country’s rich natural resources to fuel illegal activities.

Civil Society Weak and Fragmented

Guinea-Bissau’s civil society organizations are under-resourced and fragmented, making it difficult to effectively address organized crime. While NGOs generally have the freedom to operate, they face occasional intimidation and obstacles. Journalists in Guinea-Bissau face significant challenges, including:

• Censorship
• Intimidation
• Attacks on reporters

State-owned media outlets are subject to political influence, and self-censorship is common when reporting on sensitive topics such as organized crime and government corruption.

Economic Challenges Abound

Guinea-Bissau’s economy is heavily reliant on subsistence agriculture, cashew nut exports, and foreign assistance. The country faces significant economic challenges, including:

• Poverty
• Lack of infrastructure development
• Limited opportunities for economic growth

However, the country has potential opportunities for economic growth in the mining and offshore oil sectors, but previous sanctions imposed on Guinea-Bissau have delayed its economic development.

Conclusion

Guinea-Bissau’s struggle against organized crime and corruption is hindered by its weak institutions, limited resources, and political instability. The country’s criminal networks continue to flourish, fueled by corruption and a lack of effective law enforcement.

To address these challenges, Guinea-Bissau must:

• Strengthen its institutions
• Improve its response to organized crime
• Promote economic development

International support and cooperation are essential in helping the country overcome its difficulties and build a more stable future.