Political corruption and party reform: a study of eight Asian countries

Abstract

Political corruption is a global problem, posing a threat to economic growth, democracy, and political stability in wealthy and poor countries alike. Developing countries and those undergoing a transition from authoritarian rule to democracy, however, are particularly at risk. In Asia, where some countries are still recovering from the economic crisis, political corruption has had a devastating impact on the public 's confidence in political and economic institutions. During the past few years, corruption scandals have shaken several Asian countries at the highest levels, helping to topple and destabilize governments. In the Philippines, President Joseph Estrada was recently forced from office following all allegations of corruption. The Pakistani military justified its 1999 coup d'etat on the grounds rampant corruption within the civilian government. In Indonesia, corruption allegations led to the downfall of President Suharto and later, President Abdurrahman Wahid. Many of the results in the last parliamentary elections in Thailand were nullified due to widespread electoral fraud and vote buying, and Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra was indicted by the National Counter Corruption Commission for falsely declaring his assets. Even in wealthier and more stable democracies, such as Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan, the tremendous influence of money in the political and electoral processes has eroded public confidence in government institutions and has undermined the foundations of the democratic system. Efforts to tackle corruption in many countries have failed in part because they have focused extensively on legislative and regulatory solutions, while ignoring the role of political parties in reform. Skepticism on the role parties can play in reform is justified. Parties have demonstrated little intent in stamping out corruption, promoting accountable governance, and advocating greater transparency in the political system. In particular, the internal practices of parties, specifically regarding fundraising and campaigning, have been criticized. Although there are examples of transparent, policy-oriented parties, in many countries parties also participate in corrupt and illegal activities.