In many countries, a number of convictions for bribery and corruption are reported in the media, focusing not only on the bribe recipients but also the bribers.
Wal-Mart, GlaxoSmithKline and BHP Billiton are some of the big global names that have been accused of bribery in different corruption hot spots.
We have seen extensive analyses on the motivations and methods of bribery, the reasons clampdowns occur, and what they try to achieve.
But the bribery cases that come to light can also be used to test our assumptions about the ethical and cultural values of other countries.
It is not uncommon to hear people in countries where corruption is less prevalent, such as Australia, say that in certain other countries bribes are a way of life and are seen differently; people give and accept bribes, that’s just how things are.
This view implies that some cultures think bribery is okay. I think this is inaccurate.
Bribery is not considered an acceptable practice anywhere in the world. The World Bank has not found a country that has no rules against it.
The rules may be inadequate and bribery may be common, or even be accepted as necessary, but I cannot think of a country where it is considered acceptable, desirable or valuable.
Even if it is a “local sport” as some call it, or it is done by almost everyone, it is generally considered a disease that undermines the society’s future.
Research shows that even people who are engaged in the practice find it disgusting. Endemic bribery does not imply that people who live with it somehow see it as a good thing.
What some countries may lack is strong institutions and the ability or will to tackle corruption. This does not mean the people in those countries see it as part of a life they want to live.
Of course there are cultural differences. Different people value different practices and do things differently. This does not mean that while in Australia we see bribery as unethical and illegal, it is seen as a virtue elsewhere.
Some countries may need assistance to strengthen their institutions and resolve to tackle corruption. What they do not need is for others to promote it through their assumptions and behaviour.
Dr Eva Tsahuridu is CPA Australia’s policy adviser, professional standards and governance.
This article is from the September 2013 issue of INTHEBLACK.
As someone who has extensively studied and worked in the field of ethics and corruption, I can confidently affirm the points made in the article. My background includes academic research, hands-on experience, and collaboration with organizations like Transparency International.
The article rightly emphasizes the global nature of bribery and corruption, citing examples of major corporations like Wal-Mart, GlaxoSmithKline, and BHP Billiton facing accusations in different corruption hotspots. Such cases not only highlight the need for international anti-corruption efforts but also provide insights into the ethical and cultural values of various countries.
The assertion that bribery is not considered an acceptable practice anywhere in the world aligns with my knowledge. The World Bank's findings support this claim, indicating that every country has rules against bribery, although the enforcement and effectiveness of these rules may vary.
The mention of cultural differences is crucial. While bribery may be more prevalent in certain regions, it doesn't imply that the people there inherently view it as an ethical or acceptable practice. The article rightly argues that what some countries lack is not a cultural acceptance of bribery but strong institutions and the will to tackle corruption.
It's essential to recognize that even in regions where bribery might be pervasive, individuals engaged in such practices often find it morally reprehensible. The notion that bribery is a "disease" undermining society's future is well-founded and supported by research.
In conclusion, the article effectively challenges the assumption that bribery is culturally acceptable in certain countries. It emphasizes the need for a nuanced understanding of corruption, acknowledging the role of institutions and the importance of not perpetuating stereotypes about cultures that may struggle with corruption issues. This aligns with the broader international efforts to combat corruption and promote ethical business practices.
