On July 9, the American Bar Association Rule of Law Initiative (ABA ROLI) in collaboration with the Institute for Economic and Social Development of Borders (Portuguese, Instituto de Desenvolvimento Econômico e Social de Fronteiras - IDESF) hosted a seminar in Foz do Iguaçu, Brazil, aimed at empowering civil society organizations (CSOs) to prevent terrorism financing through mechanisms to disarticulate money laundering deterrence of human trafficking. This event marked a significant step forward in enhancing the capacity of CSOs and other stakeholders to address these pressing issues, particularly in border regions prone to illicit activities. This seminar was supported by ABA ROLI’s Countering Money Laundering and the Financing of Terrorism in South America program, funded by the US Department of State Bureau of Counterterrorism.
ABA ROLI Strengthens Civil Society in Combating the Financing of Terrorism in South America
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In 2022, ABA ROLI launched the Countering the Financing of Terrorism in South America program which strives to improve the capacity of the governments and obligated entities in the TBA to effectively counter the financing of terrorism in the region. The program works closely with central and local government agencies, such as Paraguay’s National Secretariat for the Prevention of Money or Asset Laundering or Asset Forfeiture (Spanish, La Secretaría de Prevención de Lavado de Dinero o Bienes – SEPRELAD), and financial and non-financial entities, such as the Association of Banks (ASOBAN) on anti-money laundering and CFT obligations. The program provides technical support to the governments, financial sector, and civil society of the Tri-Border Area (TBA) of South America to combat the financing of terrorism, thereby reducing the capacity of terrorist organizations to move assets and to conduct terrorist attacks. ABA ROLI is currently implementing the program in partnership with the International Governance and Risk Institute and K2 Integrity.
The seminar was part of a broader initiative to build resilience within civil society against financial crimes and human trafficking in the TBA, encompassing Brazil, Argentina, and Paraguay. This region, known for its economic and geopolitical complexities, requires a concerted effort from both public and private sectors to combat the threats posed by criminal networks.
The event opened with remarks from key figures, including Luciano Stremel Barros, President of IDESF; Juan Cassanello, Program Officer at ABA ROLI; Marco Berzoini Smith, Chief of the Federal Police in Foz do Iguaçu; and Dom Sergio de Deus Borges, Bishop of the Diocese of Foz do Iguaçu. Each person highlighted the importance of cross-sector collaboration in addressing the challenges of money laundering, terrorism financing, and human trafficking.
André Castro Carvalho, an expert consultant with ABA ROLI, delivered the first presentation, focusing on practical cases of money laundering involving private companies, high-profile individuals, and even non-profit organizations. He explained the nuances of money laundering and terrorism financing, the concepts of corruption and bribery, and the implications of economic sanctions. André also provided actionable recommendations to mitigate risks related to these crimes within organizations, particularly emphasizing the vulnerabilities of non-profits.
Nelson Machado, head of the Migration Unit of the Federal Police in Foz do Iguaçu, addressed the issue of human trafficking, providing insights into the complexities of this crime and its impact on the region. He highlighted the importance of identifying and protecting victims, many of whom are drawn from vulnerable populations across borders.
The seminar brought together a diverse group of participants, including representatives from Itaipu, Casa do Migrante, Cáritas, and various CSOs. This broad representation underscored the collective responsibility of different sectors in addressing financial crime and human trafficking.
The seminar had a profound impact on the participating organizations and the broader community by enhancing awareness and knowledge of the risks associated with money laundering and terrorism financing, as well as providing practical strategies for mitigating these risks within their organizations. It also promoted best practices and compliance with international and national regulations, which are crucial for organizations operating in high-risk areas. Additionally, by bringing together CSOs, law enforcement, and other stakeholders, the event fostered a collaborative environment essential for effectively combating complex and transnational crimes like human trafficking.