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
Is investment in a state's anti-money laundering and anti-corruption framework self-sustaining?
This Helpdesk Answer examines evidence on the costs of corruption and money laundering as well as the operational costs of anti-corruption and anti-money laundering initiatives. It then looks at the extent to which a cost-benefit analysis of these initiatives can be conducted. Although the data is inconclusive, some literature does suggest that there are some financial returns, particularly when measured through recovered assets. While more difficult to measure, the impact on the wider economy may be more profound.
Contents
- Background
- The economic and financial costs of corruption
- The costs of investing in anti-corruption and anti-money laundering initiatives
- Evidence on the return on investment of anti-corruption and anti-money laundering
- The redistribution of recovered assets
- Conclusion
- References
Authors
Caitlin Maslen
Reviewers
Rosa Loureiro-Revilla (U4)
Hugh Jorgensen and Jamie Bergin (TI)
Date
17/04/2024
