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Central America has some of the highest crime and violence rates in the world, largely due to transnational organized crime, such as drug and arms trafficking, and the expansion of street gangs like MS-13 and 18th Street. Countries like Honduras, Guatemala, and El Salvador have been particularly affected by this violence, which stems from a combination of weak governance, inequality, and corruption. While some countries like Costa Rica and Panama are considered safer, the overall regional stability is deeply challenged by these issues.  

Key factors contributing to crime 

• Organized crime: The region is a major transshipment point for drugs, primarily from Mexico and Colombia, leading to violence as different criminal groups vie for control. 
• Street gangs: Powerful gangs like Mara Salvatrucha (MS-13) and Barrio 18 have a significant presence and engage in activities such as extortion, which leads to high rates of violence. 
• Weak governance and corruption: Weak state capacity, corruption, and inequality create an environment where criminal organizations can thrive and operate with relative impunity. 
• Other criminal markets: The region also faces challenges from human trafficking, arms trafficking, people smuggling, and illegal mining and deforestation. 

Impact of crime 

• Homicide rates: Central American countries consistently have some of the highest homicide rates in the world, with Honduras previously having one of the highest rates globally. 
• Economic impact: Violence has a devastating economic cost, with countries like El Salvador and Honduras losing more than 10% of their GDP annually due to crime. 
• Displacement: Crime is a major driver of migration from the region, particularly among unaccompanied children fleeing gang violence and threats. 
• Erosion of trust: The influence of criminal groups can weaken democratic institutions, erode public trust in government, and lead to the normalization of violence. 

Variation within the region 

• While the region as a whole is considered high-crime, there is variation among countries. 
• Costa Rica and Panama are often cited as being among the safest countries in the region, though they are not immune to crime. 
• Recent measures in El Salvador, such as a state of exception and mass arrests, have dramatically reduced the country’s homicide rate, though they have raised human rights concerns.