The Director General of the Inter-Governmental Action Group against Money Laundering in West Africa (GIABA), Edwin W. Harris Jr., has been appointed as a temporary member of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) Steering Group under the Guest Initiative. This appointment was announced by FATF President Elisa de Anda Madrazo in a letter, noting that it aligns with paragraph 87bis of the FATF Internal Governance Principles.
Harris's appointment is set for three Plenary cycles, allowing him to engage with the Steering Group's discussions and contribute his experience and advice to the FATF President. Alongside Harris, Sweden's Head of Delegation, Emma Kershaw, has also accepted this invitation and will participate in meetings until June 30, 2025.
GIABA recently completed an Effectiveness Improvement Action Plan under Harris's leadership. The statement emphasized that "GIABA has no joint members with the FATF, and as such, I value having a voice for the GIABA region in the FSG." It added that Harris would provide insights from both GIABA and FATF Executive Secretary Clerc on challenges and opportunities during new assessment rounds.
This development marks a significant recognition for GIABA’s efforts in reforms and improving efficiency. The organization successfully exited its improvement plan while maintaining quality Mutual Evaluation processes. GIABA's Director-General, management, staff, and stakeholders have welcomed this opportunity to impact the Steering Group positively.
The first meeting of the FATF Steering Group featuring GIABA is scheduled to take place in Paris ahead of the October Plenary session. The FSG serves as an advisory body chaired by the FATF President.
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