Madagascar’s Organized Crime Networks: A Threat to National Security

The Growing Concern

Antananarivo, Madagascar is grappling with a significant problem: organized crime. Criminal networks involved in human trafficking and drug trafficking have infiltrated the country, often collaborating with counterparts abroad.

Corrupt Government Officials Facilitate Crime

According to reports, corrupt government officials are playing a significant role in facilitating criminal activities. Retired army officers, colonels, and generals in southern Madagascar have been linked to armed kidnappings, cattle rustling, and arms and drug trafficking.

Lack of National Policy Against Organized Crime

The Malagasy government has ratified several international treaties aimed at combating transnational organized crime, but the country lacks a national policy against organized crime. Corruption is rampant, with many officials implicated in illegitimate financial transactions and the trafficking of illicit commodities.

Challenges Facing Madagascar’s Judicial System

Madagascar’s judicial system is struggling to deal effectively with organized crime. The judiciary lacks resources and is influenced by private interests, leading to acquittals in many human-trafficking cases.

Law Enforcement Agencies Hampered by Corruption and Limited Resources

The country’s law enforcement agencies are also hampered by corruption and a lack of resources. The Malagasy intelligence service has contributed to the fight against organized crime, but its efforts have been hindered by government corruption.

Economic Environment Contributes to Organized Crime

The economic environment in Madagascar is also challenging, with a large informal economy and limited financial deepening making it difficult to track and control corrupt transactions.

Civil Society Organizations and Private Companies Combat Organized Crime

Despite these challenges, civil society organizations and private companies are playing a significant role in combating organized crime. The Malagasy government has launched several initiatives aimed at preventing organized crimes, including training and capacity-building programs.

Limitations and Criticisms of Government Efforts

However, the implementation of these initiatives has been limited, and many have criticized the government for its lack of political will to combat organized crime. The country’s media is also under threat from criminal libel laws and other restrictions, making it difficult for journalists to investigate sensitive subjects like cattle rustling and non-renewable resource crimes.

International Support for Combating Organized Crime

The United States Department of State has provided funding for a grant aimed at combating organized crime in Madagascar. The opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect those of the U.S. Department of State.