Korruptio

Korruptio is a term used to describe the abuse of entrusted power for private gain. Deriving from the Latin corruptio, meaning spoilage or decay, it has long been used in legal and political discourse to capture actions that undermine fair decision‑making and public trust. In modern usage, korruptio encompasses a range of practices that distort governance and economic activity.

In contemporary context, korruptio includes bribery, embezzlement, fraud, extortion, nepotism, patronage, influence peddling, and state capture. It can occur at petty levels in everyday administration or at grand, systemic levels within government, business, or civil society. Corruption distorts resource allocation, weakens institutions, reduces accountability, and erodes public confidence.

Measurement and governance: Various indices, such as the Corruption Perceptions Index and other governance indicators, aim to quantify corruption or perceptions of it. Data quality varies by country, and measurements rely on surveys, expert assessments, and financial indicators, among other methods.

Causes and effects: Corruption stems from weak institutions, opaque procedures, conflicts of interest, inadequate enforcement, and lack of transparency in areas such as public procurement and political financing. Consequences include reduced investment, distorted competition, higher costs of goods and services, weaker public services, and greater inequality.

Mitigation and international framework: Effective responses include comprehensive legal frameworks, independent anti‑corruption agencies, transparent budgeting and procurement, robust auditing, whistleblower protections, and civil society oversight. International instruments such as the United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC) and the OECD Anti‑Bribery Convention support cross‑border cooperation and standards to reduce korruptio.