Suriname Struggles to Combat Organized Crime
Despite receiving significant support from international partners, Suriname’s efforts to combat organized crime remain hindered by various challenges. In this article, we will explore the key issues that need to be addressed in order for the country to effectively tackle criminal activity.
Lack of Effective Mechanisms and Legislation
Suriname has participated in regional initiatives against counter-narcotics, rule-of-law, and anti-corruption, as well as anti-financial-crime and anti-money-laundering efforts with US law enforcement. However, the absence of organized-crime-specific legislation and outdated laws make it challenging to effectively tackle criminal activity.
Weak Legal Framework
Suriname’s legal framework is considered weak, with many laws unenforced or outdated. The judiciary is also criticized for being designed to protect powerful interests rather than uphold justice.
Challenges Facing Law Enforcement
Law enforcement in Suriname faces numerous challenges, including:
- Under-resourcing
- Inadequate training and equipment
- Poor coordination with other agencies
The country’s vast jungle terrain and porous borders make it difficult to monitor and control criminal activity.
Financial Intelligence Unit and Seized Assets
The financial intelligence unit works independently to combat money laundering, but mechanisms for transparency in the administration of seized assets are lacking. Suriname has also become a source of illicit gold and a trafficking hub, creating opportunities for money laundering and other financial crimes.
Role of Civil Society and Media
Civil society is strong, but few organizations focus on organized crime due to reliance on government funding and approval. The media environment is generally free from political interference, although defamation laws can be harsh and some journalists exercise self-censorship.
Recommendations for Improvement
To address these challenges, Suriname must prioritize the development of effective mechanisms to combat organized crime, including legislation and institutional reforms. Strengthening law enforcement, improving coordination, and increasing transparency in financial transactions are also essential steps towards creating a safer and more stable environment for its citizens.
In conclusion, while Suriname has made efforts to combat organized crime, there is still much work to be done to address the challenges facing the country. By developing effective mechanisms and legislation, strengthening law enforcement, and improving coordination, Suriname can take important steps towards creating a safer and more stable future for its citizens.