Latin America is dealing with the detrimental impacts of organized crime and violence, hindering development and growth in the region. According to the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), violence weakens states, raises business costs, and leads to a 3.5% loss in GDP. Political leaders recognize the urgency of combatting criminal groups that operate beyond borders. To address these challenges, the Latin American Security Summit was launched in Guayaquil, Ecuador, a city plagued by crime.
The IDB president, Ilan Goldfajn, emphasized the need for a regional alliance to bolster security and justice efforts, with Ecuador taking the first presidency. The alliance aims to curb organized crime through various strategies, including empowering vulnerable populations, strengthening state institutions, and cutting off financial resources.
The summit also focused on collaboration with the World Bank and CAF to combat transnational crime. Discussions highlighted the diversification of criminal activities, such as migrant smuggling and illegal mining, creating intercontinental networks of crime.
The event underscored the importance of preventing recruitment of youth by criminal groups, with plans to implement intervention programs and specialized police services in Ecuador. The summit culminated in strategies for prevention and community empowerment in territories affected by criminal violence.
Joining forces to combat organized crime is crucial in securing the region’s future and fostering a safer environment for all.
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