Isolated Trafficking Cases Plague Djibouti, Despite Efforts to Combat Organized Crime

Despite being a key hub for human trafficking and smuggling, Djibouti has made efforts to combat organized crime. While some progress has been made in identifying and prosecuting trafficked individuals, the country still faces significant challenges.

The Scope of the Problem

Criminal networks in Djibouti engage in both human trafficking and human smuggling from neighboring countries, including Ethiopia, Somalia, and Yemen. These networks are largely comprised of Djiboutian nationals, although they also have links to counterparts in other countries.

Key Facts

• Human trafficking and smuggling are significant problems in Djibouti
• Criminal networks operate primarily with Djiboutian nationals, but also have international connections
• Trafficking and smuggling occur from neighboring countries, including Ethiopia, Somalia, and Yemen

Government Efforts

In an effort to combat these crimes, the Djiboutian government has increased its efforts to address human trafficking and smuggling. The country has:

Strengthened Its Anti-Corruption Framework

• Set up a new asset declaration system
• Established the National Commission for Anti-Corruption

Challenges to Combating Organized Crime

Despite these efforts, corruption remains a significant challenge in the country. Authorities have been accused of accepting bribes from criminal networks, and high-level government officials are believed to profit from corrupt activities.

Corruption Challenges

• Authorities accept bribes from criminal networks
• High-level government officials allegedly profit from corrupt activities

The country’s judiciary is also plagued by corruption and a lack of independence. Allegations of politically motivated prosecutions are common, and the right to due process is frequently violated.

Judiciary Challenges

• Corruption and lack of independence in the judiciary
• Politically motivated prosecutions and violations of due process

Support for Victims

Civil society organizations have been working to support victims of human trafficking and smuggling. However, they face significant challenges due to government restrictions on their activities.

Challenges for Civil Society Organizations

• Government restrictions on their activities
• Limited capacity to support victims of trafficking and smuggling

International Cooperation

Djibouti is working with international partners to improve its capacity to combat these crimes and protect its borders. The country remains committed to combating organized crime and protecting its citizens from human trafficking and smuggling.

Government Statement

“We are committed to addressing the issue of human trafficking and smuggling in our country. We recognize that it is a significant challenge, but we are determined to work towards creating a safer and more secure environment for all our citizens.”

Criticism and Uncertainty

However, critics have expressed concerns about the government’s ability to effectively combat these crimes, given its track record on corruption and human rights abuses. As the country continues to grapple with these challenges, it remains to be seen whether its efforts will be sufficient to stem the tide of human trafficking and smuggling in Djibouti.