Cameroon faces challenges in human rights and corruption enforcement

A recent U.S. State Department report highlights a significant increase in human trafficking investigations in Cameroon, with 530 cases recorded in 2025 compared to 146 in 2024. Despite this 263% rise, only three suspects were prosecuted for sexual exploitation, and no convictions were reported. Challenges to enforcement include difficulties in collecting digital evidence, logistical constraints in rural areas, and insecurity in the North-West and South-West regions. The report also noted a lack of specialized courts and potential administrative complicity due to corruption.

Separately, during a United Nations Human Rights Committee review, Cameroonian officials reported 460 complaints regarding professional misconduct and corruption between 2024 and 2025. Of these, 210 investigations reached the statute of limitations without determined outcomes. While the government maintains that legislative frameworks and agencies like the National Anti-Corruption Commission are in place, concerns remain regarding the lack of public evaluation mechanisms and specific protections for whistleblowers.