How useful are anti-money-laundering efforts in combating bribery?
Journal of Money Laundering Control
ISSN: 1368-5201
Article publication date: 29 January 2020
Issue publication date: 18 May 2020
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to discuss the role of anti-money-laundering mechanisms in combating bribery. In particular, it shows how parties receiving bribes can circumvent the mechanisms currently in place to launder the money they receive for their services.
Design/methodology/approach
Through analysis of 25 formal expert interviews with prevention experts and 25 informal expert interviews with money launderers from Europe, concrete ways of laundering bribes were found. Consequently, it is suggested that alternative mechanisms are necessary to successfully fight corruption.
Findings
A combination of more severe punishments and anti-bribery incentives could help to eliminate corruption.
Research limitations/implications
This study’s findings are limited to the perspectives of 50 interviewees. Hence, a study with a larger sample conducted in different countries or at a different time could yield different results.
Practical implications
By identifying gaps in existing anti-money-laundering mechanisms, this paper aims to provide compliance officers and legislators with valuable insights into why the current prevention schemes are ineffective and how corruption could be more effectively tackled.
Originality/value
The findings demonstrate that current anti-money-laundering mechanisms are unhelpful in fighting bribery. Hence, alternative anti-bribery mechanisms are needed.
Keywords
Citation
Teichmann, F.M.J. (2020), "How useful are anti-money-laundering efforts in combating bribery?", Journal of Money Laundering Control, Vol. 23 No. 2, pp. 309-314. https://doi.org/10.1108/JMLC-03-2018-0025
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2020, Emerald Publishing Limited