Equatorial Guinea’s Anti-Corruption Efforts in Shambles

Despite ratifying international agreements aimed at combating organized crime and corruption, Equatorial Guinea has failed to implement key measures to prevent these vices. The country’s lack of political will to tackle corruption has allowed state-embedded actors to operate with impunity, perpetuating a culture of graft and abuse.

Lack of Political Will

The government’s commitment to strengthening anti-corruption efforts was touted as a condition for receiving a loan from the International Monetary Fund (IMF). However, two years on, none of the promised measures have been implemented. Instead, the country continues to benefit from its strategic location and natural resources, establishing partnerships with both democratic and authoritarian nations.

Corrupt Judicial System

The judicial system remains plagued by corruption, with no specialized units to counter organized crime. The few cases of human trafficking reported in recent years have not resulted in convictions or prosecutions. Prisons are overcrowded, with poor sanitation and medical care, while law enforcement officials engage in extortion and torture with impunity.

Weak Anti-Corruption Laws

The economic environment is equally dire, with weak anti-money laundering laws allowing corrupt officials to launder funds through the extractive industries. Cross-border currency transactions and illegal international money transfers are common methods used by companies and individuals to hide ill-gotten gains.

Deterrent for Foreign Investors

Foreign investors have been deterred by the country’s pervasive corruption, extortion, and bureaucratic procedures. The government’s regulatory reforms aimed at attracting legitimate businesses have fallen flat, with public procurement processes largely ignored.

Restrictions on Civil Society

The situation is equally bleak for civil society organizations, which face heavy restrictions on registration, operation, and free speech. Journalists are regularly intimidated, arrested, and silenced, while the government controls domestic broadcast media and restricts foreign journalists’ access to the country.

Human Trafficking Victims

Human trafficking victims are left without support or protection, with no formal identification or referral procedures in place. The government’s awareness campaigns have been hindered by the COVID-19 pandemic, while NGOs involved in supporting trafficking victims struggle to operate due to lack of coordination and funding.

Conclusion

As Equatorial Guinea continues to slide down the ranks of corrupt countries, it is clear that more needs to be done to address the root causes of corruption. The government must demonstrate a genuine commitment to tackling graft and abuse, implementing key measures to prevent organized crime and ensure transparency in its dealings. Until then, the country’s reputation will continue to suffer, and its people will remain vulnerable to exploitation.