Why does corruption matter for development? Corruption costs: (1) Citizens are compelled to pay for services that should be free; (2) State budgets are pillaged by corrupt politicians; (3) Public spending is distorted as decision-makers focus spending on activities likely to yield large bribes like major public works; (4) Foreign investment is stymied as businesses are reluctant to invest in uncertain environments; (5) andeconomies suffer. But corruption not only costs in terms of money. It costs in terms of public trust and citizens’ willingness to participate in their societies. Corruption often has links to organized crime and fosters, as well as thrives, in conflict and war. Indeed, high levels of corruption can increase the likelihood of a protracted conflict or a post-conflict society sliding back into war. Efforts to tackle climate change can also be undermined by corruption as bribes are paid to ignore environmental protection rules in the pursuit of quick profits. In these ways state security and the very values of democracy are undermined and the fulfillment of development goals is threatened...
Posted on: Wed, 27 Aug 2014 12:54:21 +0000
Trending Topics
Recently Viewed Topics
© 2015