Essay Writing
Topic: Corruption a Prominent Characteristic of Underdeveloped Countries
Essay Writing
Corruption a Prominent Characteristic of Underdeveloped Countries
Amnesty International stated, "Corruption is a violation of human rights."
In a world where information flies at the pace of light, corruption stays a persistent mark on the
fabric of society, one that we have to struggle diligently to erase. As the globe approaches the
21st century, the battle against corruption constitutes an enduring and major challenge,
stressing nations' ethical standards. Corruption drains nations of their potential like a thief in
the dark, departing an imprint of disregarded promises and crushed dreams.
As we explore the dark depths of corruption in developing countries, we come across a
disturbing reality.
Corruption is a deep-rooted social evil that manifests itself when people in positions of power
or authority use their influence or resources for personal gain, often in dishonest, unethical, or
criminal ways. It is a widespread problem with potentially devastating consequences for
civilizations, businesses, and governments around the world.
Corruption can take many forms and occurs in both the public and private sectors. At this
point, we analyze the topic of corruption through a set of examples to demonstrate its various
features and consequences.
Corruption in Politics: Politicians may receive bribes, kickbacks, or favors as compensation for
decisions that favor certain groups or individuals, which is one of the most obvious types of
corruption. For example, a government official may offer a lucrative contract to a friend's
construction company in exchange for a significant financial donation to their re-election
campaign. This type of corruption distorts the democratic process and can lead to biased policy
choices that do not serve the public interest.
"Corruption is the cancer of society." stated by late South African President - Nelson Mandela. It
truly justifies the harms of this evil that could deprive the society of its prosperity.
Bureaucracy Corruption: Corruption can permeate administrative structures where officials or
administrators use their power for their gain. For example, a government employee may
demand illegal payments from citizens to expedite the processing of any necessary
documentation, which may include permits or licenses. This not only imposes unnecessary costs
on citizens but also destroys trust in government institutions and breach the trust completely.
Corruption in Business: Corruption in the business world can involve businesses engaging in
unethical practices to gain an unfair advantage. A firm may pay bribes to public officials to
obtain contracts or regulatory approvals. Such consequences prevent legitimate competition
and hamper economic growth.
The World Bank clearly stated in its meeting held in 2006, "Corruption is a threat to democracy
and the rule of law."
Corruption in law enforcement: Corruption in law enforcement can have significant
consequences for the security and justice of society. For example, accepting bribes from
criminal groups just to turn a blind eye to crimes threatens the integrity of the entire justice
system and endangers the safety of the community.
Misuse of state funds: Misuse of public funds is everyday corruption. Government officials can
use resources intended for public services such as health, education, or infrastructure
development for their benefit. This waste of aid can impede progress in society and perpetuate
suffering.
Patronage and nepotism: Patronage and nepotism are other types of corruption in which
individuals in positions of power benefit relationships, peers, or close connections in
recruitment, promotion, or contracts. This system can end up with a lack of merit in business
and government, limiting the potential for skills and expertise to develop.
An Irish Political activist George Bernard Shaw once told, "Nepotism is the lowest and least
imaginative form of corruption."
An underdeveloped country, also known as a less developed or developing country, is a
country that faces serious economic, social, and infrastructural problems that limit its growth to
offer its citizens an adequate standard of living.
Compared to more developed countries, these difficulties often manifest as lower levels of
income, education, health care, and overall quality of life. Underdeveloped countries often
have low-income levels due to limited industrialization, dependence on agriculture, and a lack
of diversified economic sectors. They also have limited access to education, poor health care,
high rates of poverty, and inadequate infrastructure. These nations are vulnerable to economic
shocks, political instability, and high population growth, making it difficult to meet their needs.
Agriculture is a significant part of their economy, making it vulnerable to market risks and
fluctuations.
"Corruption is a major obstacle to development in underdeveloped nations." , once stated by
Kofi Annan, former UN Secretary-General.
The amount of corruption in many countries is staggering and the statistics paint a grim picture
of its impact:
Many developing countries ranked low in terms of perceived corruption, according to
Transparency International's Corruption Perceptions Index 2020. For example, Somalia, South
Sudan, Sudan, and Guinea Bissau are among the lowest-ranked countries and show high levels
of corruption. Corruption diverts a significant portion of resources from vital industries in
developing countries. According to the World Bank, corruption can increase the cost of doing
Business by up to 10% worldwide, and in some developing countries this amount can be much
higher. Corruption has a significant impact on education in these countries. According to
UNESCO, 30% of education resources are lost to corruption every year in sub-Saharan Africa,
depriving millions of children of a proper education.
Healthcare systems in developing countries also suffer from corruption. According to the World
Health Organization (WHO), corruption in the health sector can lead to the loss of 20-40% of
the funds allocated to health services in some countries.
Corruption is closely related to poverty. According to the United Nations Development Program
(UNDP), corruption can increase the cost of basic services to the poorest households by up to
10%. As a result, the most vulnerable bore the brunt of corruption.
Corruption has consequences that go beyond the economy. It undermines trust in government
institutions and deepens political instability. According to the World Bank, corruption can
increase the likelihood of violence and hinder post-conflict reconstruction in many developing
countries.
"Corruption is a barrier to development, prosperity, and peace, especially in underdeveloped
nations." - The United Nations, an international organization
Corruption is an acute problem in Pakistan, and the country faces a complex web of corrupt
practices across all sectors. These statistics and figures show the extent of the problem.
Pakistan is ranked 124th out of 180 countries in Transparency International's Corruption
Perceptions Index 2020, indicating a moderately high level of perceived corruption. The
international watchdog the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) has placed Pakistan on its "grey
list" due to money laundering and terrorist financing concerns. This position has economic
consequences for the country, as it affects its access to international financial markets. In the
fiscal year 2020-2021, Pakistan's anti-corruption body the National Accountability Bureau (NAB)
received more than 35,000 allegations of corruption and closed approximately 14,000
investigations. These figures demonstrate the ubiquity of corruption claims in the country.
According to Transparency International's Global Corruption Barometer - Asia 2020, 81% of
Pakistanis surveyed believe that corruption has worsened over the past 12 months. Economic
Survey of Pakistan 2020-2021 reported corruption in the public sector inefficiencies and
resource misallocation, stifling economic progress. According to the research, corruption costs
the government billions of dollars each year.
"Corruption is the biggest obstacle to development in Pakistan." stated by Imran Khan, former
Prime Minister of Pakistan.
Combating corruption in developing nations is a complicated and challenging task, but it is
critical for supporting sustainable development, increasing equality in society, and enhancing
overall governance quality.
Several major tactics can be used to effectively combat corruption and increase progress.
Systemic Strengthening: It is essential to establish and maintain robust structures. This includes
establishing independent anti-corruption authorities to investigate and prosecute corruption
cases, such as anti-corruption courts or ombudsman offices. It can strengthen court and law.
Fostering Transparency and Accountability: Transparency measures, such as transparent
budget processes, spending transparency, and easily accessible government data, can help curb
corrupt practices. Encouraging protective law and networks can make it easier to reveal
corruption without fear of retaliation.
The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) of Pakistan has the main motive to eradicate
corruption that can be depicted by its main slogan, "Zero Tolerance for Corruption"
Improving Legal Frameworks: Creating and executing strong anti-corruption legislation is
critical. Bribery, theft, money laundering, and conflicts of interest should all be addressed via
legislation. Legal frameworks should be clear, consistent, and strict, with punishments that
serve as effective barriers. Enforcement authorities to ensure that corrupt persons suffer
consequences for their acts.
Involvement with Civil Society: By empowering groups from civil society, non-governmental
organizations (NGOs), and the press to serve as monitors, corruption may be exposed and
politicians held accountable. These organizations can also create public awareness about the
harmful effects of corruption on society.
Promoting Ethics and Education: Ethics training and anti-corruption education programs can
help institutions and society as a whole promote a culture of honesty. These programs should
be aimed at government personnel, students, and businesses.
"Corruption is a cancer that grows in the darkness." stated by Pope Francis
Technology Application: Using technology to limit corruption opportunities. Implementing egovernance technologies, electronic procurement systems, and online service delivery can help
to reduce face-to-face encounters, which are often the source of corruption.
International Cooperation: Developing countries should participate in international anticorruption activities. Collaboration with organizations like the United Nations and participation
in international anti-corruption treaties like the United Nations Convention against Corruption
(UNCAC) can enhance cross-border cooperation and provide access to resources and
knowledge.
Pakistan may work towards a better future marked by openness, equality, and sustainable
development by addressing the underlying problems, enhancing accountability, and promoting
a culture of honesty. Only then will the nation be able to escape the grip of corruption and start
down a path of development.
Despite the difficulties caused by corruption in developing nations, we must hold thoughts of
Nelson Mandela's saying, "It always seems impossible until it's done."
Regardless of the challenging and prolonged path ahead, there is hope in mind. We may
eliminate the roots of corruption that have hampered progress for far too long provided we all
adopt an alliance dedicated to transparency, responsibility, and the rule of law. The potential
for developing countries is massive, and as we join hands to eradicate corruption, we unlock
the door to brighter futures where justice, equality, and prosperity will thrive. The destination
is a world where the hope of progress and a better life for every person can come true given
the challenging nature of the path.