Central America
The Growing Influence of Organized Crime in Latin American Politics
Criminal organizations showed this past year that they pose a growing threat to democracy in Latin America and the Caribbean, exerting nefarious influence over numerous elections and political situations throughout the region. Some criminal groups directly threatened or killed candidates and elected officials, depriving citizens of their right to a freely chosen … Read more
Costa Rica’s Homicide Rate: Trends and Challenges that Impact Public Safety and Tourism
At the end of 2024, Costa Rica’s Homicide Rate was 2.40 per day or 16.7 murders per 100,000 inhabitants, which is slightly lower than the rate recorded in 2023. Traditionally known for its safety, the country saw record-high homicides in 2023. The country’s murder rate was slightly reduced in 2024, with … Read more
Central America Homicide Rate: El Salvador Had the Lowest and Honduras the Highest Murder Rate in 2023
Violence in Central America has long been a prevailing issue, profoundly impacting the region’s social fabric and development. The violence is rooted in complex historical, economic, and social factors, and it poses significant challenges to the stability and prosperity of its inhabitants. In the 2023 Central America Homicide Rate rankings, … Read more
Latin America Homicide Rate: Which Country Had the Lowest Rate in 2023?
According to “InSight Crime’s 2023 Homicide Round-Up,“ At least 117,492 people were murdered in Latin America and the Caribbean during 2023, putting the median homicide rate around 20 per 100,000 people. But homicide data in many countries is missing or unreliable, so the actual number is likely higher. The countries … Read more
The Surge in Extortion in Honduras: How New Criminal Players Are Shaping the Landscape
Extortion appears to be increasing in Honduras as smaller gangs fill the gap left by larger groups who are retreating from the criminal economy. At the same time, arrests for extortion are falling, indicating growing impunity for this predatory criminal activity. Over 300,000 households reported that they paid extortion to one or more criminal … Read more