Corruption - Economic Analysis and Evolution of the International Law and Institutions

Abstract

The purpose of the article is two-fold:

1) To provide an outline of the main results of our upcoming book Corruption Economic Analysis and Evolution of the International Law and Institutions, by focusing in particular on the economic findings along with the policies we deem must be widely implemented in order to effectively curbing corruption both at the national and international level.

2) To show, by illustrating three recent serious cases of corruption, the need of a multidimensional approach aiming at getting together and co-ordinating the whole array of instruments and actors endowed with effective competences to tackle corruption. Furthermore, the transparent interconnections between the economic, legal and institutional elements of the below illustrated cases provide us with a strong argument as to the accuracy of a multidisciplinary approach.

The article includes four sections:

Part I summarises our methodological approach and the main findings of our economic analysis. The factual background and the main legal issues of the three cases are then illustrated. The aim is to show how the international legal standards (described in part III) are relevant to cope with cases as those under discussion, also by relying on an active co-operation between international and national authorities.

Part II outlines the main policies we identify as effective constraints to corruption.

Part III provides an overview of the main pillars of the international treaties against corruption.

Part IV finally mentions parallel developments of the international institutions and law, which may prove to be crucial in bridging some of the gaps of the anti-corruption international treaties.

Keywords: Corruption, Economics, Finance, Talking Notes Seminar World Bank May 25th 2011