Bribery

Bribery is the act of offering, giving, receiving, or soliciting something of value with the intent to influence the actions of an official or person in a position of trust. It can involve public officials, private sector actors, or intermediaries. Bribery is distinct from general corruption but is closely related to it; it is typically illegal and constitutes a crime in many jurisdictions when it aims to alter the performance of official duties or commercial decisions.

Forms include cash payments, gifts, favors, kickbacks, and facilitation payments. Facilitation payments are small bribes intended to expedite routine actions but are disallowed or discouraged in many countries. Bribery can occur domestically or across borders, and there is a separate category of commercial bribery that involves private companies.

Legal frameworks: Many countries criminalize bribery, and international conventions such as the OECD Anti-Bribery Convention and the United Nations Convention against Corruption seek to reduce cross-border bribery. Notable national laws include the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act and the U.K. Bribery Act, which address both public and private sector bribery and impose penalties on individuals and organizations.

Impact and enforcement: Bribery undermines trust and distorts markets, increasing costs and lowering development prospects. Enforcement involves investigations, prosecutions, sanctions, and corporate compliance programs. Prevention emphasizes risk assessment, due diligence, transparent governance, whistleblower protection, and strict internal controls.

History and ethics: Bribery has a long historical presence and is widely condemned as unethical, particularly when it subverts the rule of law or public accountability. Efforts to curb bribery continue through legal reform, corporate governance, and international cooperation.