Measuring Corruption: A Comparative Analytical Study

Authors

1 Faculty of Economics and Political Science-Cairo University.

2 The National Anti-Corruption Academy -The Administrative Control Authority

3 Faculty of Economics and Political Science, Cairo University

Abstract

This study aimed to examine methods of measuring corruption and the accuracy of each method in understanding the extent of corruption precisely; it also aimed to measure researchers’ views in this area. The study adopted the descriptive-analytical method by reviewing various literature on the subject of measuring corruption. It concluded that methods used to measure corruption can be classified into indirect methods, such as (expert evaluations, composite indicators, and perception surveys), and direct methods, most notably (official data and sample surveys based on experience).
The study concluded that despite the confusion and weakness of data related to corruption derived from victim, whistleblower, and witness reports, which are the basis for direct methods; these methods are the most reliable for producing detailed information about corruption. Additionally, there are modern experimental methods for measuring corruption, including public expenditure tracking surveys, using online platforms and social media, focus groups, the Delphi method, interviews, content analysis, statistical analysis, and others.
Moreover, the ranking of countries in terms of corruption measurement by indirect methods used in some international organizations’ indices does not take into account important factors that influence the measurement of corruption, such as population size, number of economic activities, size of natural resources, size of the administrative apparatus, and other significant and decisive data in the extent of corruption.
The study recommends establishing a national and direct measure to assess corruption in the country. Resorting to indirect methods is seen as expressing hypothetical viewpoints rather than clear, realistic facts and percentages. There is a need for the cooperation of state institutions and law enforcement agencies to develop a direct local indicator for measuring corruption.

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