Honduras’ State of Exception Fails to Stem Tide of Financial Crime
Six Months into the State of Exception, Concerns Remain Unaddressed
Six months have passed since Honduras implemented its state of exception, a policy aimed at reducing crime rates and increasing security. However, despite some minor decreases in homicide rates, extortion and gang violence continue to plague the country. The claims by President Xiomara Castro and the National Police that the policy has been successful are disputed by civil organizations.
Lacking Clear Strategies
The state of exception was implemented in December 2022 and is set to last until at least July 5. Its goal is to decrease crimes like extortion, dismantle criminal groups, reduce gang violence, and lessen insecurity facing many Hondurans. However, experts argue that the policy lacks clear, tactical, and comprehensive strategies for reducing violence and insecurity.
Mixed Results
According to the National Police, over a hundred members of criminal groups have been captured during the state of exception, and the homicide rate has dropped slightly. However, civil organizations point out that extortion and gang violence continue unabated. The situation is particularly dire for truck drivers across the country, who are forced to pay bribes to criminal organizations.
Prison Violence
Prison violence is also a major concern, with riots erupting throughout the state of exception. Gangs have managed to overrun prison authorities and take control of several facilities. In response, the Honduran government has implemented a 10-point intervention plan, which includes:
- Removing weapons from prisons
- Blocking cell phone signals
- Evaluating all prison staff to remove corrupt officials
Critics Say It’s Not Enough
Critics argue that this approach is similar to the methods used by El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele and is not a sustainable solution. Experts recommend alternative approaches, such as:
- Providing opportunities and alternatives to youth, like access to education and healthcare
- Changing the police’s investigative approach to focus on “following the money” rather than pursuing low-ranking members of criminal organizations
A More Comprehensive Approach Needed
The failure of Honduras’ state of exception to stem financial crime highlights the need for a more comprehensive and sustainable approach to addressing organized crime in the country. It is clear that a single policy or strategy will not be enough to address the complex issue of crime and insecurity in Honduras. Instead, a multifaceted approach that addresses the root causes of crime and provides support to those affected is necessary.