The growth of transnational organized crime in the region has created many victims, who require and entitled to a comprehensive, coordinated and concerted response, not only at the national level but also at the regional and hemispheric levels.
In order to address the effect of violence generated by organized crime, the program "Strengthening of Institutions Specialized in the Assistance and Protection of Victims, Witnesses and Other Persons in Criminal Proceedings Affected by Organized Crime in Central America" was designed. This initiative was implemented within the framework of the Central American Security Strategy (ESCA) of the Central American Integration System (SICA).
The project aimed to provide uniform, coordinated and efficient action to victims and/or witnesses, strengthen the actions of the different institutions involved, generate consensus among the institutions, reduce bureaucratic processes and improve the efficiency of the State to provide protection and assistance in a comprehensive, timely and specialized manner.