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Open Access
Article
Publication date: 23 August 2019

Salvador Gil-Pareja, Rafael Llorca-Vivero and José Antonio Martínez-Serrano

The purpose of this paper is to analyze the impact of corruption on trade.

14578

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyze the impact of corruption on trade.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors estimate gravity equations with the last econometric advances on a wide sample of countries and years using three different measures of corruption. Two of them belong to the so-called perception-based indexes and the third is derived from a structural model that takes into account the causes and indicators of corruption across countries.

Findings

A negative effect of corruption on trade appears with perceptions, but it is not widespread. However, the authors find sensible evidence of the “grease the wheels” view with the structural index if low and middle income countries are implicated. Additionally, when using this measure, differences in corruption levels negatively impact trade. Both results are in line with expectations.

Originality/value

Moreover, membership in regional trade agreements does not seem to significantly alter these results.

Details

Applied Economic Analysis, vol. 27 no. 79
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2632-7627

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 21 October 2021

Iman Ragaei Kamel, Samir Abd El Wahab and Iman Karam I.M. Ashmawy

The aim of the study is to examine the effect of public attitude on petty corruption.

1344

Abstract

Purpose

The aim of the study is to examine the effect of public attitude on petty corruption.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a survey study on customers of a licenses providing authority (N = 390) in Cairo, Egypt. The authors use Akers social learning theory of crime and deviance and take into consideration criticisms of it. The authors control for individual and organizational level determinants that are identified by scholars as influencing people's attitudes toward corruption and which could be known through the authority customers' experiences. Because the dependent variable is binary, whether a person paid a bribe during last transaction with this authority or not, the authors use binary logistic regression.

Findings

The findings indicate that people are more likely to engage in petty corruption when they see it as acceptable, have previous petty corruption experience and when they use a mediator. Also, of those who dealt with that civil service authority during and directly after the 25th of January Revolution (N = 161) 31% reported that they did not engage in petty corruption in comparison to previous years. They referred this to a change in attitude at the time.

Originality/value

The policy implications of the research are important. Social science theories could generate cultural and policy relevant solutions for petty corruption; however, they have not been taken full advantage of. Also, experience-based country-specific corruption survey studies are important input for an effective anti-corruption policy.

Details

Journal of Humanities and Applied Social Sciences, vol. 4 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2632-279X

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 26 May 2023

Beatrice D. Simo-Kengne and Siphiwo Bitterhout

The theoretical debate of corruption's impact on economic growth remains unsettled, making it an empirical question. This study aims to investigate corruption's effect on BRICS…

1706

Abstract

Purpose

The theoretical debate of corruption's impact on economic growth remains unsettled, making it an empirical question. This study aims to investigate corruption's effect on BRICS countries' economic growth.

Design/methodology/approach

A panel dataset on BRICS countries spanning 1996 to 2020 was used. Bias-corrected estimators in small dynamic panels were employed to estimate a growth model as a linear-quadratic function of corruption that accounts for cross-sectional dependence, endogeneity and unobserved heterogeneity due to country and time-specific characteristics.

Findings

The results indicate that corruption is detrimental to economic growth in BRICS countries; the quadratic relationship implies corruption is less prevalent in some countries than others. Thus, governments of BRICS countries are encouraged to embark on anti-corruption policies to boost their economic performance.

Originality/value

An important limitation of corruption studies is the difficulty in measuring real corruption experiences due to the secretive nature of corruption and the fact that corruption is known not to leave a paper trail. For the uncertainty of the index estimates, the analysis used a continuous corruption composite score measuring the standard deviation of the extent to which public power is exercised for public gain. Furthermore, estimation and inference are robust to small dynamic panels with a general form of cross-sectional dependence.

Details

Journal of Economics, Finance and Administrative Science, vol. 28 no. 56
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2077-1886

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 13 April 2022

Xuan Minh Nguyen and Quoc Trung Tran

The paper investigates the effect of corruption on corporate investment efficiency around the world.

1649

Abstract

Purpose

The paper investigates the effect of corruption on corporate investment efficiency around the world.

Design/methodology/approach

The sample includes 218,350 observations from 30,074 firms across 42 countries. The authors measure corruption based on the Corruption Perception Index (CPI) from Transparency International, Corruption Control Index (CCI) from the World Bank and Corruption Index from the International Country Risk Guide.

Findings

The authors find that corruption is negatively related to investment efficiency. The robustness checks with different measures of corporate investment and alternative regression approaches show consistent findings. Moreover, the authors also find that the effect of corruption is stronger (weaker) in strong (weak) shareholder protection countries.

Originality/value

The paper has two important contributions to the literature. First, it shows that corruption environment is also a determinant of corporate investment efficiency. Second, legal protection of shareholders can mitigate the negative effect of corruption on corporate investment efficiency.

研究目的

本研究擬探討世界各地貪污腐敗對企業投資效率的影響。

研究設計/方法/理念

研究樣本涵蓋42個國家,30,074間公司,218,350個觀察。測量貪污腐敗的方法乃基於國際透明組織的腐敗感知指數、世界銀行的腐敗控制指數和國際國家風險指南的貪污指數。

研究結果

研究結果顯示、貪污與投資效率成負相關。以企業投資的各種測量方法、以及用其他的回歸分析方法來進行的強度檢驗,均顯示一致的結果。而且,我們亦發現,在對股東的保障較大的國家,貪污所帶來的影響也會較大;同樣地、對股東的保障較小的國家,貪污的影響也相應會較輕微。

研究的原創性/價值

本研究對文獻有兩個重要的貢獻。首先,研究證明了貪污腐敗的環境亦是企業投資效率的決定因素;其次,研究亦證明給股東的法律保護會減低貪污對企業投資效率所帶來的負面影響。

Details

European Journal of Management and Business Economics, vol. 31 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2444-8451

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 29 November 2018

Hussein Elkamel

Governments may finance its expenditures through multiple resources; however, seigniorage and borrowing are commonly used. The authors think that in the presence of corruption

8959

Abstract

Purpose

Governments may finance its expenditures through multiple resources; however, seigniorage and borrowing are commonly used. The authors think that in the presence of corruption, the use of public finance may result in inflationary effect that leads to higher level of inflation, which in turn affects the whole economy.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper investigates if the variation in corruption levels jointly with public finance means, seigniorage and borrowing, accounts for the variation in the level of inflation. This paper uses panel data of 72 countries through the period 1995-2011.

Findings

The author find that corruption jointly with public finance means, seigniorage and borrowing, increase the level of inflation. This finding can address the misuse of these public finance means where corruption is prevalent.

Originality/value

This paper captures the joint effect of corruption with two different means of public finance, seigniorage and borrowing, on the level of inflation within 72 countries through 1995-2011.

Details

PSU Research Review, vol. 3 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2399-1747

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 6 August 2020

King C.T. Duho, Mark Opoku Amankwa and Justice I. Musah-Surugu

The purpose of this paper is to examine the determinants and convergence of government effectiveness in African and Asian countries.

8785

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the determinants and convergence of government effectiveness in African and Asian countries.

Design/methodology/approach

The study utilizes data from 100 countries in Africa and Asia from 2002 to 2018. The panel-corrected standard error regression is used for the regression analysis, while both beta-convergence and sigma-convergence among the countries are tested.

Findings

Both beta-convergence and sigma-convergence exist among African and Asian countries. Asia performs better than Africa across all indicators except for press freedom, and voice and accountability. Corruption perception index, government size, voice and accountability, regulatory quality and economic wealth have a significant positive effect on government effectiveness. Press freedom negatively impacts on government effectiveness, suggesting that freedom is necessary but not sufficient if there are political actors whose actions undermine freedom. Similarly, the political constraint index, as reflected by checks and balances are necessary but not sufficient to enhance government effectiveness, especially in Asia.

Practical implications

The results reveal that for press freedom and political checks and balances to enhance government effectiveness, there is a need for a different and holistic approach. The results are relevant for policymakers, public sector practitioners and academics.

Originality/value

This study utilizes a new dataset and is premier in exploring the convergence of government effectiveness among African and Asian countries.

Details

Public Administration and Policy, vol. 23 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1727-2645

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 28 March 2020

Paola Maggio

This study aims to critically analyse the Law 9 January 2019, n. 3, on “Measures to fight crimes against the public administration and on the transparency of political parties and…

3265

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to critically analyse the Law 9 January 2019, n. 3, on “Measures to fight crimes against the public administration and on the transparency of political parties and movements” (so-called bribe-destroyer law).

Design/methodology/approach

This paper draws on reports, legal scholarship and other open-source data to examine a legislative innovation for the corruption in Italy in relation to the general guarantees of the trial process and with the controversial paradigm of the national perception index of bribery.

Findings

The Italian legislative initiative that will be examined is innovative in nature and goes beyond the constitutional and conventional principles on procedural guarantees. The new initiative needs to be integrated into the international and European action against bribery that targets criminal proceeds, and at the same time, be anchored in respect for human rights during the process.

Research limitations/implications

The new initiative needs to be integrated into the international and European action against bribery that targets criminal proceeds, and at the same time, be anchored in respect for human rights during the process.

Practical implications

Despite the aggressiveness and lofty proclamations by those who aspire to fight corruption from the highest levels, the goal of rehabilitating Italy from one of the seven “deadly sins” that delay economic growth still seems far off.

Social implications

In the absence of public ethics, the increase in criminalisation does not seem sufficient on its own to guarantee the containment of the phenomenon.

Originality/value

This study examines the strengths and weaknesses of the important new law, its compatibility with human rights standards and its relationship to international standards of anti-bribery policies. The aggressive legislation critically relies on the pervasive and persistent lack of perception of corruption as a crime. In the confiscation (and now also reparation) of equivalent that normally addresses assets accumulated in a lawful manner, the periculum is even presumed in re ipsa and the classical aims of caution undergo a total torsion revealing an authoritarian face that takes on the meaning of anticipating further sanctioning contents. Finally, the presence of many levels of sanctioning in relation to the same fact poses serious problems of violation of the ne bis in idem rule.

Details

Journal of Financial Crime, vol. 28 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1359-0790

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 7 July 2022

Michael Johnston

To show that establishing an anti-corruption agency (ACA), by itself, is not likely to be a successful anti-corruption strategy. Instead, a solid base of social trust…

1426

Abstract

Purpose

To show that establishing an anti-corruption agency (ACA), by itself, is not likely to be a successful anti-corruption strategy. Instead, a solid base of social trust, participation, and support is just as essential as creating an ACA with significant powers and resources.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a historical review of the origins and development of the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) of Hong Kong, and an assessment of its three-pronged approach strategy at both strategic and tactical levels.

Findings

An ACA requires broad and deep social support and participation if it is to succeed. That the ICAC remains nearly unique in developing such a base of support provides important lessons for those countries with ineffective ACAs.

Originality/value

A reassessment of the ICAC after a half-century shows that the Hong Kong case, despite its familiarity, has much to teach us if we understand it in its broadest implications.

Details

Public Administration and Policy, vol. 25 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1727-2645

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 20 October 2020

Festim Tafolli and Sonja Grabner-Kräuter

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the relationship between perceived corporate social responsibility (PCSR) and perceived organizational corruption (POC) in a developing…

5073

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the relationship between perceived corporate social responsibility (PCSR) and perceived organizational corruption (POC) in a developing country context. The research suggests mediating roles of perceived ethical leadership (PEL) and job satisfaction (JS) in the PCSR–POC relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected through survey questionnaires. The sample consisted of 434 employees working in private and public organizations in Kosovo. Regression analysis was conducted by using a serial mediation model.

Findings

Applying a social learning framework, this study provides evidence that employees’ perceptions of corporate social responsibility (CSR) are positively related to perceived ethical leadership and job satisfaction and negatively related to perceived organizational corruption. Furthermore, results confirm that the relationship between CSR perception and organizational corruption perception is mediated by ethical leadership perception and job satisfaction.

Practical implications

Armed with the findings, organizations can adopt CSR practices to positively influence employee behaviors and attitudes. From these results, it is possible to better comprehend the role of CSR in dealing with relevant aspects such as corruption at the organizational level, especially in developing and emerging markets.

Social implications

The findings of this research indicate that employees in socially responsible organizations perceive less organizational corruption. Adopting a more ethical and responsible management approach might represent a promising solution to fight the corruption phenomenon inside and even outside organizations. These results should serve as reflection for both managers and public authorities.

Originality/value

With regard to CSR, previous studies have investigated different employee outcomes but never considered the potential impact on corruption at the organizational level. Furthermore, this study extends the literature by conceptualizing perceived ethical leadership and job satisfaction as mediators between perceived CSR and organizational corruption perception, in a developing country context where the concept of CSR is still less investigated.

Details

Corporate Governance: The International Journal of Business in Society, vol. 20 no. 7
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1472-0701

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 3 April 2023

Özgür İcan and Taha Buğra Çelik

The economic and administrative conditions of countries normatively have an effect on the economy and level of market development. Moreover, it is of great importance for a…

Abstract

Purpose

The economic and administrative conditions of countries normatively have an effect on the economy and level of market development. Moreover, it is of great importance for a healthy economy whether the public institutions and organizations are transparent and functioning in accordance with their purpose. The aim of this study is to show whether there is a relationship between transparency and market efficiency.

Design/methodology/approach

Correlation analysis has been conducted between prediction accuracy rates, which are obtained by seven different machine learning algorithms and Corruption Perception Index (CPI) levels.

Findings

It has been statistically shown that the indices of countries with low corruption levels are harder to predict, which, in turn, can be interpreted as having higher weak-form market efficiency. According to that, an intermediate negative correlation has been found between CPI scores and predictability levels of stock indices. Considering the findings, it can be interpreted that the markets of countries with relatively more transparent and well-functioning public sector have more weak-form market efficiency.

Research limitations/implications

The study can be extended with cutting-edge machine learning and deep learning techniques in future studies. There are very few studies which try to explain factors related to market efficiency. Thus, the authors claim that there is still room for further research in order to determine the factors related to market efficiency, implying that current literature is still far from explaining the causation behind the inefficiencies.

Practical implications

According to findings, the markets of countries with relatively more transparent and well-functioning public sector have more weak-form market efficiency. Based on these findings, in practice, it can be said that more successful predictions can be made using machine learning algorithms in countries with relatively lower CPI scores.

Originality/value

In literature, the factors related to market efficiency are still far from explaining the causation behind the inefficiencies. Thus, it has been investigated whether transparent and well-functioning public institutions and organizations have any relation with market efficiency.

Details

Journal of Capital Markets Studies, vol. 7 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2514-4774

Keywords

1 – 10 of 375