Corruption and Fraud Definitions

Corruption Definition and Origins

• Corruption is the abuse of entrusted power for private gain.
• Examples of unethical corrupt behavior include bribery, embezzlement, and favouritism.
• Transparency International defines corruption as the abuse of power for private gain, highlighting its impact on social and economic development.
• The term "corruption" comes from the Latin word "corruptio," meaning "to break" or "to destroy."
• Historically, corruption implies a breakdown of integrity and morality.

Fraud Definition and Origins

• Fraud involves deceiving someone for financial or personal gain.
• It utilizes misrepresentation, deceit, or trickery to gain an unfair or unlawful advantage.
• Legally, fraud is wrongful or criminal deception intentionally used for unfair or unlawful gain.
• The word "fraud" originates from the Latin term "fraus," meaning "deceit" or "wrong."

Malawi's Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI)

• Malawi ranks 115 out of 180 countries on the 2023 Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) with a score of 34/100.
• This ranking suggests a high level of perceived corruption within the public sector.
• 20% of Public Service Users reported paying a bribe in the previous 12 months.
• Despite lower corruption than other sub-Saharan African countries, corruption levels in Malawi remain high and have not improved significantly in the past decade.

Causes and Incentives for Corruption

• Greed: The desire to cheat, manipulate, take advantage of others, or bully one's way to success.
• Weak Governance Structures: Inefficient systems and lack of accountability create opportunities for corrupt practices.
• Low Salaries/Incentives: Inadequate compensation can incentivize corrupt behavior.
• Cultural Norms: Acceptance of corruption as a norm can perpetuate its prevalence.
• Lack of Transparency: Insufficient public access to information about government activities encourages corruption.

Reasons for Individual Engagement in Corruption

• Personal Gain: Individuals may engage in corruption for financial benefits or personal advancement.
• Pressure and Coercion: Individuals may be pressured or coerced into corrupt practices by superiors or peers.
• Normalization of Corruption/ Rationalization: When corrupt practices are commonplace, individuals may justify their actions.

Forms of Corruption

• Bribery: Offering, giving, receiving, or soliciting something of value to influence someone in a position of power.
• Kickbacks: A form of bribery where a contractor or supplier pays a portion of their earnings to an official in exchange for favorable treatment or contracts.
• Nepotism: Favouritism granted to relatives or close friends in hiring or promotion processes, often at the expense of more qualified candidates.
• Extortion: Coercing someone into giving up money, goods, or services through threats of violence or other forms of intimidation.
• Collusion: An agreement between two or more parties to engage in fraudulent activities, often to manipulate markets or avoid competition.
• Misuse of Power: Officials using their position to benefit themselves or others in ways that contradict legal or ethical standards.
• Public Procurement Corruption: Manipulating public contracts for personal gain, including rigging bids or failing to deliver on contract terms.
• Influence Peddling: Using one's influence in government or connections with officials to obtain favors or preferential treatment.

Strategies to Combat Corruption in the Malawi Revenue Authority

• The Malawi Revenue Authority has undertaken proactive and reactive measures to address the risk of fraud and corruption within its operations.
• The changing nature of fraud and corrupt practices requires ongoing adaptation and new strategies.

Explore the definitions, origins, and implications of corruption and fraud in society. Learn how these concepts are interlinked and the historical context behind them. Additionally, gain insights into Malawi's position in the global Corruption Perceptions Index.