Description:
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Transnational organized crime in the West African region must be regarded as an issue of growing concern. In order to highlight the problem, an overview of the development of the phenomenon in five countries of the region (Côte d'Ivoire, Ghana, Nigeria, Senegal and Sierra Leone) is provided, tracing both its extent as well as the range of illicit activities that are engaged in. The report concludes that the impact of organized crime on the region's citizens is profound, not only does it undercut state institutions but greatly increases the challenges for honest travellers, and business operators who often feel targeted by Western customs and law enforcement agencies. Police reform, more effective forms of regional and international cooperation, greater political will and attempts to curb corrupt practices are essential to effectively combating the problem. |
