Kiribati’s Struggle Against Organized Crime

A Small Island Nation Under Threat

Tarawa, Kiribati - Despite being a small and remote island nation in the Pacific Ocean, Kiribati is not immune to the threats of organized crime. A recent report by the Organization of Crime Index (OCINDEX) highlights the country’s efforts to combat these illegal activities.

Organized Crime Networks Operating Locally

According to the report, Kiribati has small, loosely organized criminal networks that operate locally and are involved in human trafficking and fauna crimes, particularly illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing. These networks often collaborate with foreign vessels operating off the shores of Kiribati.

Unique Challenges

Unlike other countries, Kiribati does not have a prominent figurehead or large-scale organized crime syndicate operating within its borders. The country’s remoteness, poor banking services, and lack of accessibility make it unattractive to foreign criminal actors.

Corruption Remains a Problem

The report also noted that corruption is a problem in Kiribati, particularly regarding resource access. Petty corruption and nepotism are widespread, but there have been efforts made by the government to improve anti-corruption measures.

Overfishing of Endangered Species

One of the most pressing issues facing Kiribati is overfishing of endangered species such as bluefin tuna. The country has not ratified the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) or the UN Firearms Protocol, making it challenging for authorities to combat this issue.

Collaboration and Capacity Building

The government lacks the capacity to combat overfishing alone, but works with other countries to identify drug trafficking and share intelligence. Kiribati’s legislative framework is sound, reflecting model provisions developed by the Pacific Islands Forum and New Zealand.

Progress in Anti-Money Laundering Efforts

Despite these challenges, Kiribati has made efforts to strengthen its anti-money laundering system and established a financial intelligence unit (FIU). The country has also set up a system for reporting suspicious transactions and has not been identified as having strategic anti-money laundering deficiencies.

Vulnerabilities and Challenges Ahead

However, the report highlighted the country’s vulnerability to state capture by economic predators due to its heavy reliance on foreign aid. Economic development is constrained by a shortage of skilled workers, weak infrastructure, and remoteness from international markets.

Lack of Victim and Witness Support Structures

The OCINDEX report also noted that Kiribati has no victim and witness support structures in place, although there is a long common law practice of affording protection to court witnesses. The country participates in international crime prevention programs and receives support from New Zealand to develop a more preventive approach to policing.

Conclusion

Overall, while Kiribati faces significant challenges in combating organized crime, the report highlighted the country’s efforts to strengthen its anti-corruption measures, improve its financial intelligence unit, and collaborate with other countries to combat IUU fishing.