Nauru: A Country with Limited Organized Crime, but Corruption Remains a Concern

Despite being a small island nation, Nauru’s government has taken significant steps to curb organized crime, and there is little evidence of private sector involvement in criminal economies. However, corruption remains a problem due to the country’s limited resources and vulnerability to foreign influence.

Measures Against Corruption

The government has implemented measures to tackle corruption, including adopting a new criminal code in 2016. However, transparency and accountability are hindered by the concentration of media outlets in state hands, making it difficult to hold instances of corruption accountable.

• Lack of law on access to public information
• No income and asset disclosure laws for appointed or elected officials
• Government criticism for hampering international media work and banning certain companies

Anti-Money Laundering Efforts

Nauru has made progress in its anti-money laundering efforts since 2004. The country’s narrow economic base, absence of financial institutions, and strict land tenure restrictions make it unattractive for investment and financial flows.

• Limited financing options
• No specific units or law enforcement agencies dedicated to combating organized crime

Regional Processing Centre

The government’s dependence on the Regional Processing Centre for asylum seekers, which generates significant revenue, has raised concerns about corruption and human rights abuses. However, there are few reports of serious weaknesses in relation to organized crime.

Civil Society

There are few organizations focused on combating organized crime or providing support to victims. Refugees living in the Regional Processing Centre face miserable living conditions and are vulnerable to violation and mistreatment.

• Limited civil society organizations
• Vulnerable refugees living in poor conditions

Freedom of Expression

Freedom of expression is guaranteed by the constitution but not always respected in practice. Foreign journalists face difficulties operating in Nauru due to government-imposed restrictions aimed at deterring outside coverage of conditions for asylum seekers and refugees.

Conclusion

While Nauru faces challenges related to corruption and organized crime, the country’s limited resources and lack of private sector involvement mean that it is not a significant hub for criminal activity. However, continued efforts are needed to improve transparency, accountability, and human rights in the country.