Definition
We define corruption as the abuse of entrusted power for private gain. Transparency.org
The basics
- public servants demanding or taking money or favours in exchange for services, Transparency.org
- politicians misusing public money or granting public jobs or contracts to their sponsors, friends and families, Transparency.org
- corporations bribing officials to get lucrative deals Transparency.org
Corruption can happen anywhere: in business, government, the courts, the media, and in civil society, as well as across all sectors from health and education to infrastructure and sports. Transparency.org
Costs of corruption
Political costs
Your freedom and rule of law. Transparency.org
Social costs
Your participation and even your trust in government. Transparency.org
Environmental costs
Your chance for a healthy environment and a sustainable future. Transparency.org
Economic costs
Your opportunity to build and grow wealth. Transparency.org
Transparency.org
How citizens and governments can make progress
There is no silver bullet for fighting corruption. Here are five ways that citizens and governments can make progress in the fight against corruption: Transparency.org
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End impunity
Effective law enforcement is essential to ensure the corrupt are punished and break the cycle of impunity, or freedom from punishment or loss. Civil society can support the process with initiatives such as Transparency International’s Unmask the Corrupt campaign. Transparency.org
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Reform public administration and finance management
Reforms focussing on improving financial management and strengthening the role of auditing agencies have in many countries achieved greater impact than public sector reforms on curbing corruption. Disclosure of budget information prevents waste and misappropriation of resources. Transparency.org
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Promote transparency and access to information
Countries successful at curbing corruption have a long tradition of government openness, freedom of the press, transparency and access to information. Access to information increases the responsiveness of government bodies and raises public participation. Transparency.org
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Empower citizens
Strengthening citizens demand for anti-corruption and empowering them to hold government accountable is a sustainable approach that helps to build mutual trust between citizens and government. Community monitoring initiatives can detect corruption, reduce leakages of funds, and improve public services. Transparency.org
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Close international loopholes
Without access to the international financial system, corrupt public officials would not be able to launder and hide the proceeds of looted state assets. Major financial centres need measures to stop banks and offshore centres from absorbing illicit flows. Transparency.org
Reporting corruption (example: Nepal)
For Complaint
107 (Hotline No.)
1660-01-22233 (Toll Free No.)
986333191 (via Viber / SMS)
ujuri@ciaa.gov.np (For email)
[/NepalCIAA via Facebook messages]
[@CIAA_Nepal via Twitter messages]
अख्तियार दुरूपयोग अनुसन्धान आयोग (CIAA) — Online Complaint
अख्तियार दुरूपयोग अनुसन्धान आयोग (CIAA)
Further reading and tools
- The Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) is the leading global ranking of public sector corruption. Transparency.org — CPI
- The Global Corruption Barometer (GCB) is the world’s largest public survey on corruption, collecting first-hand data on how people experience and perceive corruption. Transparency.org — GCB
Share Your Thoughts
- Which insight in the five key ingredients did you find most important for citizens where you live?
- Do you think reporting systems (hotlines, online complaint portals) are accessible and safe enough for ordinary people in your community?
- What local, everyday actions have you seen that help hold officials or service providers accountable?
- How can transparency and access to information be improved where you live?