Crime Underreporting in Latin America and the Caribbean

Crime underreporting poses a significant challenge for governments and law enforcement agencies. This study examines the extent, characteristics, and drivers of crime underreporting and provides evidence-based policy recommendations to address it. Using information from victimization surveys from 10 Latin American and Caribbean countries, the analysis reveals widespread crime underreporting, with an average of approximately three out of four crimes not reported in the countries examined. Low and heterogenous reporting rates point to potential biases in official crime statistics, with certain crimes and victim groups over- and underrepresented. A comprehensive literature review yields a menu of evidence-backed interventions, including remote reporting methods, public information campaigns, diversifying police forces, and reducing deportation risk. Beyond these policies, strengthening data collection through better and more frequent victimization surveys and alternative data collection methods, and addressing fundamental challenges such as the integrity and efficacy of law enforcement institutions appear critical to achieve long-term improvements in crime reporting and, ultimately, support effective crime responses.