Guinea’s Challenging Situation: Key Points

1. Junta-Led Government and Political Unrest

Following a military coup in September 2021, Guinea is currently under a junta-led government. The international community has condemned the coup as a setback for democracy in Africa.

2. Corruption and Organized Crime: A Widespread Issue

Corruption is widespread in Guinea, with officials involved in illicit activities often facing minimal consequences.
This sense of impunity has led to the establishment of lucrative criminal networks involving:
- Government officials
- Military personnel
- Law enforcement officers
- Political leaders
- Traditional leaders

3. Weak Judicial System: A Major Obstacle

The judicial system in Guinea lacks specialized units dedicated to countering organized crime.
Corruption, lack of transparency, understaffing, and a shortage of qualified lawyers and magistrates are major issues within the judiciary.

4. Human Trafficking: Challenges and Efforts

Guinea has approved standard operating procedures for identifying human trafficking victims but faces challenges in convicting traffickers due to inadequate judicial system efficiency. The country lacks resources, political and social unrest, and the impact of the pandemic have hindered anti-trafficking efforts.

5. Economic Challenges: Heavy Reliance on Cash Transactions

Guinea’s economy is heavily reliant on cash transactions outside the banking sector, exacerbating problems like corruption and low government capacity. The 2021 political and health crises had a significant impact on socio-economic progress in Guinea.

For the first time in many years, the Guinean government has approved standard operating procedures for identifying human trafficking victims but faces challenges in convicting traffickers due to inadequate judicial system efficiency.