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São Tomé and Príncipe: A Journey to Improve Criminal Justice and Security

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Combating Organized Crime

In the tiny island nation of São Tomé and Príncipe, a significant challenge lies in combating organized crime. While specialized judicial units are in place to counter this threat, the judiciary is often subject to political influence and manipulation.

The government has made efforts to modernize the judiciary, aiming to ensure independence and prevent corruption.
However, budgetary constraints, a lack of infrastructure, and a shortage of qualified personnel continue to hinder progress.

Prison Conditions

Prison conditions are also dire, with:

Overcrowding
Poor infrastructure
Service failures making it difficult for inmates
Prolonged pre-trial detention has become a major concern, affecting over one-fifth of cases

Law Enforcement and Security

Despite these challenges, São Tomé and Príncipe’s law enforcement agency often lacks the necessary equipment and human resources to effectively combat crime. The country relies heavily on:

Foreign vessels
Warships to combat maritime crime, particularly given its lengthy coastline and vast maritime borders

Citizens’ Perception of Authority

Citizens express high levels of mistrust towards the authorities, citing perceived inefficiency and corruption. This sentiment is fueled by reports of police mistreatment and a lack of accountability.

Economic and Financial Environment

While there is little evidence of large-scale illicit financial activity in São Tomé and Príncipe, its anti-money laundering protocol does not meet global standards. Regulatory processes lack the capacity to respond to money laundering and terrorist financing risks.

The government has taken steps to address these deficiencies but continues to be a vulnerable target for organized crime groups.
The country is a member of the Inter-Governmental Action Group against Money Laundering in West Africa, a regional body aimed at combating financial crimes.

While some government initiatives aim to support victims of organized crime, there are no established programs for such assistance in São Tomé and Príncipe. The country lacks an explicit organized crime prevention policy, leaving it vulnerable to criminal activity.

Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) operate freely but face funding constraints that hinder their effectiveness.
Freedom of the press is constitutionally guaranteed, although self- censorship is common due to limited media capacity and government influence.

Conclusion

São Tomé and Príncipe faces significant challenges in combating organized crime, including a lack of resources, political influence on the judiciary, and inadequate infrastructure. While efforts are underway to address these issues, more needs to be done to ensure a safer and more secure environment for its citizens.