Mauritania: A Haven for Criminal Activity

Despite its illegality, cannabis consumption is widespread in Mauritania, a country that has become a significant transit point for Moroccan-sourced cannabis destined for Europe and the Middle East. The country’s porous borders and lack of effective law enforcement have allowed drug trafficking to thrive.

Cyber Crimes on the Rise

Mauritania’s increasing reliance on technology has made it more vulnerable to cyber-dependent crimes, with attacks on government and private sector websites being a major concern. Officials suspect that foreign actors are behind these attacks, further highlighting the country’s vulnerability.

Financial Crimes Widespread

Corruption is rampant in Mauritania, with financial crimes being a significant problem. The country’s financial intelligence unit has been ineffective in curbing these crimes, which have contributed to widespread poverty and inequality. Low wages and a lack of parliamentary control over the budget have created an environment conducive to corruption.

Criminal Actors from Abroad

Mauritania is a hotbed for criminal activity, with foreign actors from:

• Morocco
• Algeria
• Mali
• Senegal
• Sahrawi

involved in drug trafficking and human smuggling. Malian criminal networks are also known to be active in the country, collaborating with local facilitators.

State-Embedded Corruption

While there is no evidence of mafia-style groups operating in Mauritania, state-embedded corruption remains a significant problem. High-level officials have been implicated in financial scandals, including:

• Allocation of fishing quotas
• Government contracts

Weak Leadership and Governance

Mauritania’s weak leadership and governance have contributed to its poor economic and social development. The country’s desert geography and sparse population make it an easy target for smuggling networks and violent extremist groups.

Economic and Financial Environment

Mauritania’s informal sector and underdeveloped financial infrastructure make it difficult to detect money laundering, although anti-money laundering legislation exists. The country’s economy is heavily reliant on:

• Mineral exports
• Fisheries
• Agriculture
• Livestock

making it vulnerable to economic shocks.

Civil Society Constrained

Victims of trafficking in Mauritania often lack access to justice and support programs. The government’s victim and witness support initiatives are limited, and there are few concrete measures in place to identify trafficking victims. Civil society is heavily constrained by the country’s regime and intimidated by security forces.

In this challenging environment, it remains to be seen whether Mauritania can effectively combat its numerous problems and promote a more stable and prosperous future for its citizens.