Algeria’s Illegal Markets Thrive Despite Government Efforts
Algeria is facing a severe environmental crisis due to the use of chemical agents such as mercury and lead in illegal activities, while airline employees have become involved in smuggling gold bars abroad. The country’s lack of transparency and corruption has created an environment conducive to organized crime.
Challenges Faced by Algeria
- Use of chemical agents like mercury and lead in illegal activities
- Airline employees involved in smuggling gold bars abroad
- Lack of transparency and corruption creating an environment for organized crime
The State of Illegal Markets in Algeria
- Heroin market remains small due to lack of cultural appeal and being situated away from heroin trafficking routes, but poppy plantations have been uncovered in the southwest, indicating an uptick in trafficking.
- Cocaine trafficking is on the rise, with large quantities transiting through the country.
Government Efforts to Combat Organized Crime
The government has signed major international treaties and conventions related to organized crime and has established standards and systems for international cooperation. However, information-sharing related to high-level tax evasion cases or common judicial trials is limited.
- Signed international treaties and conventions on organized crime
- Established standards and systems for international cooperation
- Upped diplomatic activity towards neighboring countries since 2020
Anti-Organized Crime Laws in Place
Strong anti-organized crime laws are in place, with severe penalties for crimes such as drugs, human trafficking, arms smuggling, and other offenses.
Conclusion
Algeria’s illegal markets continue to thrive despite government efforts to combat organized crime. The country’s lack of transparency and corruption has created an environment conducive to organized crime, making it challenging for civil society to operate effectively.
- Experts warn that the situation is likely to worsen if reforms are not implemented and corruption is not addressed.
- The government must take concrete steps to increase transparency and cooperation with international partners to combat organized crime and protect its citizens.