Gabon: A Haven for Crime and Corruption

Lying on the west coast of Central Africa, Gabon is a country plagued by widespread corruption, crime, and instability. In recent years, the country has experienced a political crisis following a failed coup attempt in 2016, which has led to growing mistrust in the government.

Arms Trafficking

Gabon’s proximity to Cameroon, where arms trafficking is common, makes it vulnerable to illegal weapons sales. Despite this, there is no evidence of Gabon serving as a major transit or destination point for arms traffickers.

Forest Crimes

The country’s forest industry is plagued by widespread corruption and bribery, with logging companies often paying off ministers and officials to secure timber concessions and avoid punishment. This has led to the illegal trade in rosewood and other valuable species, with China being a significant market for Gabonese timber.

Human Trafficking

Gabon is also a major hub for human trafficking, with victims being smuggled into the country from neighboring countries such as Cameroon and Republic of Congo. The country’s porous borders and corruption-ridden customs officials make it an easy target for traffickers.

Corruption and Lack of Transparency

Corruption is rampant in Gabon, with many government officials and politicians enriching themselves through illegal means. The country’s judiciary is weak and often seen as a tool for the ruling party to silence political opponents.

Economic Environment

Gabon’s economic environment is not conducive to private sector investment, with ongoing perceptions of weak governance and high levels of corruption deterring foreign investors. Money laundering is also a major concern, with few cases being prosecuted.

Despite efforts by the government to combat human trafficking and modern slavery, there are few mechanisms in place to help victims exit these situations. The country’s media space is extremely limited, making it difficult for civil society organizations to raise awareness about important issues.

Conclusion

Gabon is a country plagued by corruption, crime, and instability. With its proximity to other conflict-ridden countries, it is vulnerable to illegal activities such as arms trafficking and human trafficking. To combat these issues, the government must prioritize transparency, accountability, and good governance, while also investing in mechanisms to protect victims of modern slavery and human trafficking.