Financial Crime World

Malawi Emphasizes Importance of International Cooperation in Fighting Financial Crime

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At the 14th Session of the United Nations Congress on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice, Malawi’s Solicitor General and Secretary for Justice highlighted the country’s commitment to combating financial crime through international cooperation.

A Global Issue Requires Collective Action

“Crime is a global issue that requires us to join hands in the fight against it,” said the official. “We are well aware that crime has the potential to cripple economies, especially in developing countries, and rob societies of their most promising citizens.”

Malawi’s Efforts Against Financial Crime

Malawi has taken several steps to prevent financial crime, including:

  • Enacting the Trafficking in Persons Act in 2015
  • Enacting the Financial Crimes Act of 2017, which criminalizes terrorist financing
  • Strengthening laws to combat human trafficking, particularly child trafficking

International Cooperation is Key

The official noted that Malawi’s efforts are not limited to domestic initiatives, but rather involve international collaboration through mechanisms such as mutual legal assistance between states. “We recognize that no one country can successfully fight crime alone,” said the official. “That is why we are committed to working together with all UN Member States to rise above the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and make our criminal justice systems work.”

Improving Access to Justice

Malawi has also emphasized its commitment to improving access to justice for all persons, which is in line with the country’s Constitution and the global goal on peaceful and inclusive societies. The government has taken steps to:

  • Clear the backlog of criminal cases
  • Decongest prisons
  • Improve coordination between law enforcement agencies

Conclusion

The official concluded by expressing gratitude to Japan for hosting the 14th UN Crime Congress and reiterating Malawi’s commitment to working with other countries to combat financial crime and promote a safer world.