Corruption in Ethiopia
Corruption is a problem in many developing countries. Defined as the abuse of power with the aim of gaining personal advantage, corrupt practices can include, but are not limited to the offering or taking of bribes, facilitation payments, and embezzlement. The harm created by corruption can be great, not only in terms of increasing the direct costs, with funds being directed away from their legislate use, hindering social needs, the practice is also a deterrent and may hinder aid and development and presents an opportunity cost. This is certainly the case in Ethiopia.
A developing nation will benefit from the creation of a stable environment. Stable environments aid in the provision of social needs, such as healthcare and education, as well as supporting economic development which will facilities increased disposable income for individuals and for the government to provide services. The presence of corruption is a factor which impacts negatively on the way a community operates, and diverts funds away from essential areas. In Ethiopia, where it is known there is corruption in many government departments and services, such as the police, the judiciary, and the land administration, this can create inequality. Families that bribe police may get away with criminal activities, which are detrimental to the entire community. Crimes, such as theft and drug dealing can thrive if the police turn a blind eye, with the associated social problems. Furthermore, there...
The problem can be exacerbated when there is corruption in the judiciary, and the outcome of judicial decisions may be influenced.
The impact on corruption may be seen as creating more harm that simply increasing the costs of living through the payments that need to be made, or the social consequences of ongoing crimes that is facilitated through the corruption, it is also the way it may deter financial aid and inward investments. Financial aid may originate with other governments, or non-governmental agencies, and will often provide help that is needed, such as supporting clean water programs, healthcare and educational services and the development of internal infrastructures, as well as providing help for community programs and local businesses. However, if there is a high level of corruption those providing aid may be deterred, knowing there will be a high cost getting aid to those who need it, allowing for the additional costs, such as 'fees' or bribes to be paid to officials, and that the aid may be supporting crime.
One approach to development and the improvement of social condition has been economic development, with a great deal of aid supporting the condition so the economy can improve. Just as aid is deterred by the presence of corruption, so is business; there are additional costs that will be…
