Paraguay’s Organized Crime Index: A Comprehensive Assessment

The report on Paraguay’s global organized crime index highlights several key concerns regarding the country’s situation with regards to crime, corruption, and governance.

Corruption: A Widespread Problem

• Corruption is a pervasive issue in Paraguay, with both main political parties accused of forming an “impunity pact” to avoid investigation into corruption allegations.
• This has led to a lack of accountability among high-ranking officials and undermines public trust in the government.

Crime: Organized Groups Dominate the Smuggling Market

• Private sector actors evade millions of dollars in taxes, with organized crime groups dominating the smuggling market in Paraguay.
• The country has a high level of impunity, with poor defendants often subjected to excessively high bail while politically connected or wealthy defendants receive concessions.

Judicial System: Corruption and Politicization

• Corruption and politicization are widespread within the judicial system, contributing to impunity for high-ranking officials.
• This undermines public confidence in the justice system and makes it challenging to address organized crime effectively.

Security: Ad Hoc Law Enforcement Strategies

• Paraguay’s law enforcement agencies have been accused of corruption and involvement in criminal activities.
• Strategies against organized crime often come from cooperation with Brazilian and Argentinian authorities rather than within the government.

Economic Environment: High-Risk for Money Laundering

• Paraguay has a long-standing history of being a high-risk country for money laundering and terrorist financing.
• Criminals increasingly use Paraguay to launder illicit money through the acquisition of real estate, cattle ranches, and other assets.

Civil Society and Social Protection: Inadequate Support

• Despite efforts by the government to improve victim support and protection, several high-profile cases have demonstrated its failure to protect victims and witnesses.
• The quality of support for victims, particularly in rural areas, remains inadequate due to insufficient financial and human resources.

Conclusion

Paraguay faces significant challenges in controlling organized crime, corruption, and governance, which pose risks to both the country’s development and regional stability. Addressing these concerns will require a comprehensive approach that involves cooperation from government agencies, civil society, and international partners.