Fifteen nations launch Escudo de las Américas to combat transnational crime

Fifteen governments in the Western Hemisphere have signed a joint declaration to formalize the ‘Escudo de las Américas’ (Shield of the Americas) mechanism. This multilateral strategy aims to combat 24 transnational criminal and narcoterrorist organizations, including the Sinaloa Cartel, Jalisco Nueva Generación, Clan del Golfo, ELN, and FARC dissidents.

The agreement focuses on three priority pillars: economic cooperation, regional security strengthening, and multilateral diplomatic coordination. To disrupt these networks, participating nations have agreed to implement measures such as freezing financial assets, revoking visas, restricting mobility for members and collaborators, and pursuing criminal prosecution for those providing material or logistical support.

Additionally, the signatory nations plan to request a consultation meeting through the Organization of American States (OAS) to evaluate the activation of the Inter-American Treaty of Reciprocal Assistance (TIAR). The strategy also includes reviewing investments, critical mineral supply chains, and digital infrastructure rules to ensure economic stability against criminal influence.