ANTI-CORRUPTION: DEMOCRACY, ACCOUNTABILITY AND SYSTEMIC CHANGE

Abstract

In this article, we will review foreign research conducted in the field of corruption and focus on the negative aspects of corruption and corruption risks affecting the democracy and socio-economic development of developing countries. Also, this research work widely covers parochial, market, and systemic types of corruption and their differences from each other, condemning such vices in society as weak political systems and mechanisms, excessive bureaucracy, and economic inequality. In addition, this article focuses on the complex and integral connection between corruption and development, as well as on the fact that corruption is an obstacle to progress, destroying a democratic society. The article notes that public participation, transparency, and the integrity of civil servants are key factors in combating corruption. At the same time, the study criticizes only punitive approaches (measures), emphasizing the need to find solutions to the main problems and support reforms aimed at strengthening corruption-free public administration. In this regard, attention is drawn to the measures taken and achievements made by the state body ICAC of the state of Hong Kong. In turn, this article focuses on changing the systemic mechanisms in the government rather than the state’s function of prosecution and punishment in eliminating corruption and corruption risks. This article also highlights the complex and problematic relationship between democracy and corruption. Indeed, when democratic systems weaken, corruption intensifies, because the failure of control mechanisms restricts civil and political freedoms. To address the aforementioned problems, several systematic proposals are also presented in this article.