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
Can please provide an overview of corruption and anti-corruption in Bolivia?
Content
1. Introduction/Context
2. Overview of corruption in Bolivia
3. Governance structure and anti-corruption efforts in Bolivia
4. References
Caveat
Bolivia has undergone profound political changes and institutional reforms in recent year, with a new constitution adopted in 2009 and an anti-corruption law in 2010. It is thus a very early stage to assess the relevance of the new anti-corruption framework and its impact on the level of corruption in the country.
Summary
Corruption in Bolivia is present at all levels of society. The judiciary, the police and the public administration more broadly are perceived as the most corrupt institutions of the country. Bolivia is dependent on its natural resources and this sector, worldwide, is notoriously prone to corruption. With the development of the country’s lithium plan, it is crucial for Bolivia to create the necessary safeguards to ensure maximum social benefits. Bolivia has undertaken significant efforts to enhance transparency. Evo Morales declared ‘zero tolerance’ against corruption and his government has created an institutional and legal framework that appears robust. Yet, despite these positive initiatives, Bolivia still performs below global and regional averages in most governance areas, including corruption. The lack of capacity and resources undermine new institutions, while low salaries, lack of training and a burdensome bureaucracy continue to create opportunities and incentives for corruption.
Authors
Sofia Wickberg, Transparency International, [email protected]
Reviewers
Marie Chene, Transparency International, [email protected]; Viviana Esprella, Transparencia Bolivia, [email protected]; Robin Hodess, Transparency International, [email protected]
Date
27/09/2012
