A Discussion of the Corrupt Angola–Russia Debt Deal

May 2, 2013

Dirty Debt: The Shady Deal between Russia and Angola (April 25, 2013)

Corruption Watch, a London-based NGO, recently released a groundbreaking report exposing massive corruption in Angola. Titled Deception in High Places: The Corrupt Angola-Russia Debt Deal, it details one of the most egregious cases of financial crime and corruption in recent memory. Through a series of financial transactions facilitated by dubious middlemen, hundreds of millions of dollars were diverted from Russian and Angolan treasuries into the pockets of politicians, businessmen and arms dealers. This money was transferred through shell corporations via a number of banks based in secrecy jurisdictions Switzerland, Luxembourg, Cyprus, and the Netherlands.

A group of Angolan anticorruption campaigners filed a criminal complaint with the Swiss Federal Prosecutor’s office based on the new information contained in the report and called for a new investigation.

The report was the subject of a recent panel discussion. Listen above.

Topics

Anticorruption, Freedom of Information, Rule of Law

A New Beginning

For a Better Future, Sudan Must Confront Its Past

With Omar al-Bashir no longer in power, the temptation to move beyond his regime’s crimes is understandable. But unless Sudan grapples with its past, it risks trading one corrupt dictatorship for another.

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Authoritarianism in Africa

Nigerian Democracy’s Uncertain Future

Three people standing in front of a wall

The 2019 general election in Nigeria was marred by intimidation, dysfunction, and credible allegations of fraud. Here is why pro-democracy and civil society groups around the world should take notice.

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Voices

Q&A: A Rotten Deal in Nigeria and the Global Movement for Transparency

As two major oil companies face court cases over a deal in Nigeria, Global Witness’s Rachel Owens talks about how activists are fighting for transparency and justice—and what the international community can do to help.

June 29, 2017

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