Fighting Illegal Mining in French Guiana: A Security Assessment

Many Latin American countries are having to deal with the problem of illegal mining and its ramifications. In French Guiana, as well as in Suriname, there are extensive forced labour networks linked to domestic illegal gold markets. Those ensnared in illegal mining areas are often migrant workers or low-income residents. This illegal gold is sold in domestic, regional, and foreign markets. Although French security forces have increased their activity in the area, they are hampered by the presence of criminal groups, the difficult geography, and the nearby borders.