O law[10] security is a fundamental principle enshrined in various international treaties on human rights[3]including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights[1] and International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. In Cape Verde, this right is guaranteed by Constitution[6] of the Republic, which establishes security as one of the pillars of the Rule of Law[4] Democratic.
In recent years, Cape Verde has faced significant challenges with regard to public security, including an increase in urban crime and issues related to drug trafficking, due to its strategic geographical location in the Atlantic. These factors have impacted on the perception of security among citizens and require an effective response from the authorities to guarantee the protection of the public. fundamental rights[2] of the population.
In addition, the Cape Verdean government has implemented various policies and programmes to strengthen security, such as the modernisation of police forces and international security cooperation. International organisations, such as the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC)has been working with Cape Verde to strengthen institutional capacities and promote regional security.
This report aims to analyse the state[11] The analysis will analyse the current state of the right to security in Cape Verde, assessing the measures implemented by the government, the challenges faced and the future prospects for improving security conditions in the country. The analysis will be based on recent data, national and international legislation, as well as relevant case studies.
Index
The security system in Cape Verde is made up of various institutions that play crucial roles in maintaining public order and protecting citizens' rights. The main entities include the National Police, the Coast Guard and the Armed Forces. Each of these institutions has specific functions, but they work in an integrated manner to guarantee the country's internal and external security.
The National Police is responsible for public security, crime prevention and investigation, while the Coast Guard focuses on protecting territorial waters and preventing illegal activities at sea, such as drug trafficking. The Armed Forces, meanwhile, have the function of defending national sovereignty and supporting internal security in emergency situations. (Government of Cape Verde)
Cape Verde faces a number of security challenges, including drug trafficking, violent crime and the growing influence of international criminal networks. The archipelago's geographical location, situated between South America and Europe, makes it a strategic point for drug trafficking, which represents a significant challenge for local authorities.
Urban crime, especially in metropolitan areas like the city of Praia, is also a growing concern. The increase in violent crime, such as robberies and homicides, has put pressure on the security forces to intensify their operations and prevention strategies. (UNODC)
International co-operation is an essential component of Cape Verde's security system. The country has established partnerships with various nations and international organisations to strengthen its security capabilities. The European Union, for example, has been supporting Cape Verde through technical and financial assistance programmes aimed at strengthening security institutions and the country's security system. justice[13].
In addition, Cape Verde participates in regional initiatives, such as the Community of Portuguese Speaking Countries (CPLP) and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), which promote security and defence cooperation between member countries. These collaborations are key to tackling transnational threats and improving the country's response capacity. (European Union External Action)
In recent years, Cape Verde has implemented various reforms in the security sector to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of its security forces. These reforms include the modernisation of equipment, the continuous training of security agents and the implementation of new technologies for surveillance and monitoring.
One notable example is the National Internal Security and Citizenship Programme (PNSIC), which aims to integrate different security approaches and promote community participation in crime prevention. This programme has been instrumental in reducing crime rates in critical areas and strengthening trust between the population and the security forces. (Ministry of Administration[5] Cape Verde)
The protection of human rights is a fundamental principle in Cape Verde's security system. The security forces are trained to act in accordance with international human rights standards, ensuring that their operations respect the dignity and rights of citizens.
However, challenges remain, especially with regard to the treatment of detainees and overcrowding in prisons. Human rights organisations have called attention to the need for reforms in the prison system and for the implementation of alternative measures to detention[8]Such as rehabilitation and social reintegration programmes. These issues are crucial to ensure that the right to security does not compromise other fundamental rights. (Amnesty International)
Incorporating technology into Cape Verde's security system has been a priority to improve surveillance and incident response. The use of security cameras, advanced communication systems and data analysis has allowed for a more proactive approach to preventing and combating crime.
Smart city pilot projects, which include the installation of sensors and the use of artificial intelligence to monitor public areas, are under development in some regions of the country. These initiatives aim not only to increase security, but also to improve urban management and citizens' quality of life. (World Bank)
The future of Cape Verde's security system will depend on its ability to adapt to new threats and its resilience in the face of social and economic changes. Continued investment in training, technology and international co-operation will be essential to ensure that the country continues to be a model of security and stability in the region.
In addition, the active participation of society[9] and the promotion of a culture[14] of peace and citizenship will be fundamental to sustaining the progress made and to facing future challenges in an effective and inclusive manner. (African Union)
Cape Verde's socio-economic and political context plays a crucial role in the implementation of security policies. The country, made up of an archipelago of islands, faces unique challenges due to its geographical location and limited resources. Cape Verde's economy is highly dependent on tourism, remittances and foreign aid, which can influence social and economic stability. The effective implementation of security policies must consider these economic and social vulnerabilities. According to World Bank data, in 2023 the unemployment rate in Cape Verde was approximately 12%, which can contribute to social insecurity and crime (World Bank).
Cape Verde's security infrastructure faces significant challenges, including the need for modernisation and expansion. Security forces, such as the national police and coastguard, often deal with limited resources, which makes it difficult to implement effective policies. The lack of modern equipment and adequate training are obstacles that need to be overcome. In addition, the geographical dispersion of the islands requires complex logistics to implement security policies uniformly throughout the territory. Investments in technology and infrastructure are essential to improve the operational capacity of the security forces.
Community participation is a valuable opportunity for implementing security policies in Cape Verde. Involving local communities in public security can increase trust between citizens and security forces, as well as promoting a culture of co-operation and shared responsibility. Community policing programmes, which encourage collaboration between the police and residents, have shown positive results in various regions of the world. In Cape Verde, similar initiatives can help reduce crime and improve the perception of security among the population.
International and regional cooperation offers significant opportunities for strengthening security policies in Cape Verde. Partnerships with international organisations, such as the European Union and the United Nations, can provide technical and financial support for the development of security capacities. In addition, collaboration with neighbouring countries in West Africa can help address transnational issues such as drug trafficking and illegal immigration. The Community of Portuguese Speaking Countries (CPLP) also plays an important role in facilitating the exchange of information and best practices in security.
Climate change represents an emerging challenge for security in Cape Verde. Rising sea levels and extreme weather events such as storms and droughts can destabilise communities and increase vulnerability to insecurity. The implementation of security policies must therefore integrate climate change adaptation strategies to mitigate its impacts. The protection of critical infrastructure and resilient urban planning are essential components for ensuring security in a climate change context. Cape Verde's National Civil Protection Agency has been working on contingency plans to deal with natural disasters, but the need for additional resources and international co-operation is evident (National Civil Protection Agency).
Capacity building and continuous training for security forces are fundamental to the effective implementation of security policies. Training programmes should be updated regularly to include new threats and emerging technologies. Training in human rights and ethical policing practices is also crucial to ensure that security forces act in accordance with international standards. Collaboration with higher education institutions and non-governmental organisations can provide training and research opportunities that benefit Cape Verde's security forces.
Technology and innovation offer significant opportunities for improving security in Cape Verde. The implementation of modern surveillance systems, such as security cameras and drones, can increase the monitoring and response capacity of security forces. In addition, the use of advanced communication technologies can facilitate coordination between different security agencies and improve operational efficiency. E-government initiatives can also contribute to transparency and accountability, strengthening public trust in security institutions.
Legal and regulatory challenges are a critical aspect of implementing security policies in Cape Verde. Legislation must be updated to reflect new realities and threats, ensuring that security forces have the necessary legal tools to operate effectively. However, it is important to balance security with the protection of human rights and civil liberties. The review and reform of security laws must be conducted in a transparent and inclusive manner, involving civil society and other stakeholders.
The financing and sustainability of security policies are pressing issues in Cape Verde. Dependence on foreign aid can limit the country's ability to implement security policies independently and sustainably. It is essential to develop funding strategies that guarantee the continuity of security operations without jeopardising national sovereignty. Diversification of funding sources, including public-private partnerships, can offer innovative solutions to overcome budgetary constraints.
Integrating security policies with other areas of governance, such as health, education and economic development, is crucial to addressing the underlying causes of insecurity. Integrated policies can promote a safer and more stable environment by addressing factors such as poverty, inequality and social exclusion. Implementing intersectoral approaches can maximise the impact of security policies and contribute to Cape Verde's sustainable development.
The continuous training of security forces is crucial to meeting the emerging challenges in Cape Verde. While previous reforms have emphasised the modernisation of equipment and the implementation of new technologies, it is equally important to invest in the training of security agents. Training should be comprehensive, covering everything from investigation techniques to conflict management and the protection of human rights. In addition, training should include modules on cybersecurity, given the increase in digital threats. Implementing exchange programmes with security forces from other countries can enrich local knowledge and practices. (Interpol)
Community participation is a vital element in strengthening security in Cape Verde. Unlike previous sections, which discussed community participation in terms of co-operation, the focus here is on the creation of community security councils that act as mediators between the population and the security forces. These councils can help identify local problems and develop specific strategies for each community, fostering an environment of mutual trust. Community education on security and civil rights should also be promoted to encourage active citizen collaboration. (UNDP)
Although technology and innovation have already been discussed in terms of surveillance, the integration of information and communication technologies (ICT) can be further explored. The creation of digital platforms for anonymous reporting and the use of mobile applications for direct communication with the police are examples of how ICT can be used to improve public safety. In addition, the implementation of data management systems can optimise information analysis and strategic decision-making by security authorities. (ITU)
Security policies must be inclusive, taking into account the needs of all social groups, including women, young people and minorities. This aspect was not addressed in the previous sections, which focussed mainly on structural and technological challenges. Social inclusion in security policies can be promoted through specific programmes that address gender-based violence, the involvement of young people in criminal activities and discrimination against minorities. The creation of specialised units within the security forces to deal with these issues can improve the effectiveness of security policies. (UN Women)
Cape Verde, due to its geographical location, is susceptible to natural disasters such as droughts and storms. National security must include strategies for prevention and resilience to these events, which have not been covered in detail previously. The implementation of early warning systems and the training of rapid response teams are essential measures. In addition, integrating security policies with disaster management plans can ensure a more coordinated and effective response, minimising the impact on the population and infrastructure. (World Bank)
These recommendations aim to strengthen the security system in Cape Verde, addressing identified gaps and promoting a more holistic and inclusive approach to meeting current and future challenges.
The research report on the right to security in Cape Verde highlights the complexity and interconnectedness of the challenges faced by the country's security system. The security structure, made up of the National Police, Coast Guard and Armed Forces, plays a crucial role in maintaining public order and protecting citizens' rights. However, Cape Verde faces significant challenges, such as drug trafficking and rising urban crime, exacerbated by its strategic geographical location. International cooperation, especially with the European Union and regional organisations such as ECOWAS, has been vital in strengthening the country's security capabilities (European Union External Action).
Recent reforms, such as the National Internal Security and Citizenship Programme, have shown progress in modernising the security forces and promoting community participation. However, challenges persist related to human rights, especially in the prison system, and the need to modernise the security infrastructure. The report suggests that the future of security in Cape Verde will depend on continued investment in technology, training and international co-operation, as well as the integration of security policies with other areas of governance, such as health and education. Promoting a culture of peace and citizenship, along with natural disaster resilience strategies, are essential steps to guarantee a safe and stable environment for all citizens (World Bank).
English 
Portuguese 
French