Here is the converted article in Markdown format:

Togo’s Struggle Against Corruption and Organized Crime

Despite verbal commitments from the government to address corruption, Togo remains plagued by a culture of impunity that encourages political crimes and corruption. The economy and state are heavily impacted as a result.

Lack of Evidence of Mafia-Style Criminals

According to sources, there is currently no evidence of mafia-style criminal actors operating in Togo. However, the government has introduced initiatives to increase transparency and accountability, as well as cooperation with civil society. These efforts are still too recent for adequate assessment.

International Cooperation

Togo cooperates closely with relevant organizations and foreign governments to combat organized crime. The country has ratified several international instruments aimed at countering organized crime and terrorism. However, some state actors are suspected of having links with trafficking networks, raising questions about the extent to which these instruments are implemented.

Domestic Challenges

Domestically, Togo has a legal framework in place to combat organized crime and corruption, but political will and effective enforcement remain major challenges. The country lacks specialized law enforcement units dedicated to combating organized crime, and its borders are porous, making it vulnerable to external threats.

Economic and Financial Environment

Togo’s tax policy is often ambiguous, confusing, and arbitrary, hindering business practices and growth. However, the government has made efforts to enhance transparency and boost competitiveness, with support from international partners.

Civil Society Efforts

Civil society organizations have been working to address human trafficking, but efforts are hindered by a lack of response from the government. Many NGOs assist in providing care for victims and dismantling criminal networks.

Relationship Between State, Civil Society, and Political Actors

Togo’s relationship between civil-society organizations, the state, and political actors is marked by distrust and suspicion, which was evident during the socio-political turmoil in 2017-2018. The country has an active media, but public news services are lacking, and press freedom is highly intertwined with the political environment.

Source: OCINDEX.NET

This summary was funded in part by a grant from the United States Department of State. The opinions, findings, and conclusions stated herein are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect those of the United States Department of State.