The United Nations has urged African governments to adopt targeted, risk-based approaches when implementing anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing regulations to avoid stifling civil society organisations (CSOs).

Speaking at the 3rd Africa High-Level Civil Society Conference in Abuja, UN Special Rapporteur Ben Saul emphasised that most non-profits do not pose terrorist financing risks. He warned against blanket regulations, excessive reporting requirements, and the denial of banking services, which can hinder essential humanitarian work.

Nigerian officials highlighted that Nigeria’s national risk assessment model successfully transitioned from broad, indiscriminate regulation to an evidence-based approach that focuses only on vulnerable entities. The conference underscored that fostering trust and collaboration between regulators and civil society is crucial to curbing the continent’s estimated $88 billion annual illicit financial flows without compromising civic freedoms.