THE IMPACT OF CORRUPTION ON PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION – A POLITICAL ANALYSIS

Abstract [English]

Corruption is a significant obstacle to effective public administration, undermining governance, economic development, and social justice. It involves the misuse of power for personal gain and manifests in various forms, such as bribery, embezzlement, nepotism, and fraud. In public administration, corruption weakens transparency, accountability, and efficiency, leading to misallocation of resources and poor service delivery. It affects key sectors such as healthcare, education, infrastructure, and law enforcement, ultimately reducing public trust in government institutions. The economic consequences of corruption are severe, as it discourages investment, increases business costs, and fosters inefficiency. It creates an unfair competitive environment where illicit gains determine success rather than merit and innovation. In addition, corruption in governance and policy-making distorts decision-making processes, prioritizing private interests over public welfare. This results in policies that benefit the powerful few at the expense of the broader population, increasing social inequalities.
Democracy and the rule of law are also weakened by corruption, as it promotes electoral fraud, political favoritism, and judicial manipulation. Citizens lose faith in democratic institutions when they perceive governance structures as corrupt and self-serving. This can lead to political instability, civil unrest, and weakened civic engagement. Moreover, corruption fosters a culture of dishonesty, reducing ethical standards in society and encouraging further fraudulent practices. Addressing corruption requires comprehensive strategies, including strong legal frameworks, independent oversight bodies, public participation, and international cooperation. Transparency, ethical governance, and accountability mechanisms are essential to restoring trust and ensuring efficient public administration. Without effective anti-corruption measures, governance remains inefficient, economic progress is hindered, and social inequalities persist. Therefore, tackling corruption is crucial for sustainable development, good governance, and the overall well-being of society.