Probity in Governance

Causes of Corruption Among People

1. Socio-Economic Factors

Poverty and Lack of Basic Needs: While poverty often correlates with corruption, as individuals may resort to bribery or unethical practices to meet basic needs, it is not the sole cause. For instance, in low-income settings, people may bribe officials to gain access to essential services such as healthcare or education, as seen in many rural parts of India.

2. Power and Wealth

Affluence and Power Dynamics: Corruption is not restricted to the poor; affluent and powerful individuals also engage in corruption to maintain or enhance their status. High-profile cases such as the 2021 investigation into the business dealings of Gautam Adani and the alleged corruption in the 2G spectrum scam involving high-profile politicians and corporate leaders illustrate that wealth and power can lead to large-scale corruption.

3. Weak Institutional Framework

Lack of Accountability and Transparency: Corruption often thrives in environments where institutions are weak and lack accountability. For example, the 2015 Panama Papers leak exposed how wealthy individuals and leaders used offshore accounts to evade taxes, highlighting systemic weaknesses in global financial regulation.

4. Cultural and Societal Norms

Normalization of Corruption: In some societies, corruption becomes normalized or even expected, which perpetuates its prevalence. For instance, the normalization of bribery in some sectors, such as real estate and construction, is prevalent in countries like Nigeria, where it is often seen as a necessary part of doing business.

5. Political and Legal Factors

Political Patronage and Legal Loopholes: Corruption is facilitated by political patronage and legal loopholes. In India, the 2016 Punjab National Bank fraud case involved billions in fraudulent transactions facilitated by a nexus of powerful individuals exploiting legal and regulatory gaps.

6. Inadequate Enforcement and Enforcement Mechanisms

Weak Enforcement: Even with anti-corruption laws in place, ineffective enforcement can lead to persistent corruption. The slow pace of justice and lack of conviction in high-profile cases, such as the delay in the trial of former Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif for corruption, exemplify this issue.

Conclusion

Corruption arises from a complex interplay of socio-economic factors, power dynamics, weak institutional frameworks, cultural norms, and political and legal shortcomings. Addressing these causes requires a multifaceted approach that includes strengthening institutions, enhancing transparency, and promoting ethical norms across all levels of society.