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Argentina: A Hotbed of Crime and Corruption

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Argentina’s cities are notorious for their involvement in a wide range of criminal activities, from drug trafficking to money laundering, extortion to contract killing. The country’s underworld is said to be rife with organized crime groups that operate with impunity.

Organized Crime Groups

These gangs, many of which operate from prisons and enjoy protection from politicians, judges, and deputies, are believed to be responsible for supplying cocaine and marijuana to urban areas. They also engage in:

• Car theft and parts trafficking
• Black-market currency dealing
• Arms trafficking

Foreign organized crime groups from Mexico, Colombia, and Brazil have been linked to the country’s illegal drug trade, while Asian mafia-style groups are known to extort local businesses. Traditional mafia-style groups, including some members of the Italian mafia, also operate in the country, particularly in the northern regions.

Corruption at the Highest Levels

Corruption is a pervasive problem in Argentina, with many high-ranking officials and business leaders allegedly involved in criminal activities. The government has been accused of using drug-trafficking money to finance political campaigns, while some politicians have been linked to organized crime groups.

The country’s judiciary is also plagued by corruption, with allegations of politicization and manipulation contributing to low trust in the system. Few crimes are successfully prosecuted each year, and many criminal groups operate with impunity.

Police Force Under Scrutiny

While the Argentinian police force is generally considered more trustworthy than the government and judiciary, there have been accusations of officers offering protection to drug traffickers and money launderers. The country’s borders are also porous, making it easy for criminals to smuggle drugs and contraband into the country.

Economic Challenges

Argentina’s economic regulatory environment is characterized by:

• Low regulatory quality
• High level of corruption

The country’s constant economic crises have hindered private sector development, while the informal employment rate is substantial and inflation is extremely high.

Civil Society Under Threat

The Argentinian government has implemented various strategies to prevent organized crime, human trafficking, and cybercrime, but many of these efforts have been hampered by corruption. The country’s civil society is also under threat, with some NGOs involved in the fight against organized crime facing:

• Harassment
• Intimidation

Conclusion

Argentina’s cities are a hotbed of criminal activity, with organized crime groups engaging in a wide range of illegal activities. Corruption is a pervasive problem at all levels of government, while the judiciary and police force are also plagued by inefficiency and corruption. The country’s economic challenges have hindered private sector development, and civil society is under threat from harassment and intimidation. It remains to be seen whether the Argentinian government can effectively combat organized crime and restore trust in its institutions.