Mozambique’s Efforts to Combat Terrorism Receive High Marks in New Assessment

Maputo - Mozambique Makes Significant Strides in Combating Terrorism

Mozambique has made substantial progress in its efforts to combat terrorism, according to a new assessment released today. The country’s laws and procedures for designating individuals and entities associated with terrorist activities have been rated as “Met” by international experts.

Transparency and Compliance Praised

The assessment, which evaluated Mozambique’s compliance with international standards for combating terrorism, praised the country’s commitment to following applicable procedures and using standard forms for listing designated individuals and entities. Under Mozambican law, competent authorities are required to provide relevant information about proposed designations, including a description of the reasons why an individual or entity is being designated. This transparency has been hailed as a major step forward in the fight against terrorism.

Targeted Financial Sanctions Implemented Promptly

The assessment also commended Mozambique’s implementation of targeted financial sanctions without delay. Upon receipt of a sanctions list from the United Nations or other international organizations, the country’s authorities immediately freeze the assets of designated individuals and entities.

Freezing Requirements Extended to Designated Persons and Entities

Furthermore, the assessment noted that Mozambique requires all financial institutions and designated non-financial businesses and professions to freeze, without prior notice, the funds or other assets of designated persons and entities. This requirement extends to all funds or other assets owned or controlled by designated individuals and entities, regardless of whether they are linked to a specific terrorist act.

Room for Improvement

While there is still room for improvement, particularly with regards to extending the freezing requirements to all natural and legal persons in the country, Mozambique’s efforts to combat terrorism have been recognized as among the most effective in the region.

Assessment Conducted by International Experts

The assessment was conducted by a team of international experts and is based on an evaluation of Mozambican law, regulations, and practices related to combating terrorism. The findings are expected to inform the country’s efforts to strengthen its counter-terrorism measures and comply with international standards.