WorldPublished
Poverty and unemployment fuel gangsterism, expert says
A panel discussion highlighted the link between socioeconomic conditions and gangsterism, with experts citing high unemployment and poverty as drivers of organized crime. The panel emphasized the need to address the root causes of gangsterism, including extortion and the failure of the state to protect communities. While acknowledging some police successes, the panel stressed that more needs to be done to combat gangsterism.
At a glance
- High unemployment and poverty contribute to gangsterism and organized crime.
- Gangs have established alternative governance and economies in communities.
- Extortion is a common tactic used by gangs to pressure communities.
- The state's failure to protect communities contributes to gangsterism.