Anticorruption, Cultural Norms, and Implications for the APUNCAC

Corruption is a phenomenon that has received global attention from academics, policy makers and international donors. may be defined as the abuse of power for private gain. Activities include bribery, extortion, rent-seeking behaviour, cronyism, patronage, nepotism, embezzlement, graft engagement with criminal enterprises. However, nepotism gift giving are frequently viewed in many Asian African cultures acceptable practices promote efficiency smooth relationships. This article examines these contexts including Afghanistan, Papua New Guinea, Russia, China South Asia, discusses various rationales practices, seeks to understand how can reconciled efforts combat corruption. focuses on implications regard Anticorruption Protocol United Nations Convention against (APUNCAC) proposal establish body (UN) inspectors investigate charges corruption refer cases dedicated domestic anticorruption courts. suggests UN norms not incompatible traditional cultural practices. draws upon experiences Hong Kong Singapore, where was endemic, demonstrate local rapidly changed when independent established receive support institutions free manipulation by authorities.