Financial Crime World

Antigua and Barbuda Makes Progress in Fighting Corruption, But More Work Needed

Antigua and Barbuda’s Progress in Implementing UNCAC Provisions

Antigua and Barbuda has made significant progress in implementing key provisions of the United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC). The country has taken important steps in enacting legislation that criminalizes corruption offenses, including bribery, embezzlement, and money laundering. Additionally, specialized law enforcement agencies, such as the Office of National Drug and Money Laundering Control Policy (ONDCP), have been established to combat these crimes.

Challenges in Ensuring Victim and Witness Protection

Despite this progress, Antigua and Barbuda still faces challenges in ensuring the effective protection of victims and witnesses. The UNCAC requires states parties to ensure that victims and witnesses are protected from intimidation, retaliation, and harassment. However, Antigua and Barbuda has yet to implement effective measures to safeguard their safety.

International Cooperation Mechanisms

Antigua and Barbuda’s Mutual Legal Assistance Act does not provide for the automatic exchange of information between law enforcement agencies, which can hinder international cooperation in combating corruption. The country is urged to consider using the Convention as a basis for mutual legal assistance and extradition agreements with other states parties.

Recommendations for Improvement

To address these challenges, the International Anti-Corruption Academy recommends that Antigua and Barbuda:

  • Strengthen Laws and Regulations: Ensure the effective protection of victims and witnesses by strengthening laws and regulations.
  • Enhance International Cooperation: Implement measures to enhance international cooperation, including using the Convention as a basis for mutual legal assistance and extradition agreements.
  • Capacity-Building Training: Provide capacity-building training for law enforcement agencies and prosecutors to improve their skills in investigating and prosecuting corruption offenses.

Conclusion

While Antigua and Barbuda has made significant progress in implementing key provisions of UNCAC, more work is needed to ensure the effective protection of victims and witnesses and to strengthen international cooperation mechanisms. The country’s commitment to combating corruption is crucial to maintaining trust in its institutions and promoting economic development.