Latin America has become a hotbed of reorganised crime, posing a serious threat to democracy and stability in the region. From the escalating gang wars in Ecuador to the infiltration of Mexican mafias in avocado farms, the manifestations of organised crime are becoming increasingly brazen and alarming.
Over the past decade, Latin America has witnessed significant shifts in criminal economies that have far-reaching implications. Three major disruptions have accelerated the reorganisation of crime in the region:
- Cocaine production has skyrocketed, with drug trafficking routes being rewired to meet global demand. Brazil’s First Capital Command (PCC) now rakes in over $1 billion annually from cocaine sales alone.
- Criminal groups have taken control of illegal gold mines, leading to a surge in production and profits that rival those of the drug trade.
- Mafias have capitalized on the mass migration of Latin Americans, turning the movement of migrants into a lucrative industry by extorting coyotes and kidnapping refugees.
The implications of reorganised crime are not confined to Latin America. The threat it poses to democracy and governance extends beyond borders, impacting Europe and the US as well. Mafias do not aim to directly overthrow governments but establish “parallel powers” that undermine state institutions and the rule of law.
Combatting transnational crime requires a concerted international effort, with the US and Europe playing a pivotal role in supporting regional governments to stem the tide of reorganised crime. Ignoring the issue or relegating it to secondary importance will only exacerbate the situation, leading to further innovation and reorganisation within criminal networks.
The time to act is now. The cost of inaction is too great, and the consequences too severe. By prioritising partnerships and cooperation, we can hope to contain the spread of reorganised crime and safeguard democracy in Latin America and beyond.
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