Measuring corruption in Africa: the international dimension matters
This fourth edition of the African Governance Report focuses on the importance of measuring corruption and of understanding its international dimensions. The report challenges the traditionally narrow notion of corruption as the “abuse of public office for private gain”. This definition places too much emphasis on public office and on the ostensible legality of the act, neglecting the corrupt tendencies prevalent in the private and non-State sectors. Policymakers must understand the importance and implications of viewing corruption as a broader phenomenon where private agents share significant responsibility. The report implores all stakeholders to rethink corruption measurements in general, and in the African context in particular. There is ample evidence that the operations of foreign players on the continent are causing significant illicit financial outflows. Such omissions present serious gaps in current measurements.