The Trump administration, through the Department of Justice and the FBI, has recently strengthened ties with Paraguayan President Mario Abdo Benítez.

In December 2019, the Paraguayan government announced the FBI would set up a team to work with local police, prosecutors, and intelligence officials. The collaboration involves the exchange of information and work on issues of interest to both countries, in particular government corruption, money laundering, and drug trafficking.

Backgrounder’s Content

Background: Politics and Lawfare

Noteworthy US-Paraguay 2019 Events

Are things so bad in Paraguay that outside intervention is needed?

What is the State Department’s role and the structure of the FBI/DOJ participation?

Isn’t this inviting a backlash? Do Paraguayans think the FBI is necessary?

What safeguards do the Paraguayans have to assure professionalism?

Which crimes will they target? What successes does the United States have to refer back to?

Previous Coverage

“Investors Find Fertile Ground in Paraguay,” by Daniel Duarte

“Nazi Past Haunts South America’s Penchant for Impunity,” by Daniel Duarte

Download the PDF: “The US Campaign to Fight Corruption in Paraguay” (five pages)