This Anti-Corruption Helpdesk brief was produced in response to a query from a U4 Partner Agency. The U4 Helpdesk is operated by Transparency International in collaboration with the U4 Anti-Corruption Resource Centre based at the Chr. Michelsen Institute.
Query
Please provide an overview of corruption, and its impact, as well as anti-corruption in Bangladesh. We’re particularly interested in service delivery sectors (e.g. health and education), social protection, climate finance and construction.
Content
1. Overview of corruption in Bangladesh
2. Governance structure and anti-corruption efforts in Bangladesh
3. References
Caveat
In-depth research on the direct impact of corruption in Bangladesh in particular sectors is limited. However, some studies establish a link between corruption and growth, poverty alleviation and service delivery.
Summary
Corruption in Bangladesh is widespread and permeates all levels of society; the rule of law is weak and the most institutions lack transparency and integrity structures. This is reflected in the country’s poor
performance in most areas assessed by governance indicators. Political parties, public administration, the judiciary and the police are perceived as the most corrupt institutions of the country. Bangladesh has made significant improvements in the fight against corruption in the last decade. However, patronage networks influence Bangladeshi public life and the malfunctioning of democratic institutions, dominated by the opaque ruling parties undermine the country’s efforts to reduce corruption and poverty.
Authors
Sofia Wickberg, Transparency International, [email protected]
Reviewers
Marie Chene, Transparency International, [email protected]; Dieter Zinnbauer, Transparency International, [email protected]
Date
07/11/2012
