Columbia International Affairs Online: Working Papers

CIAO DATE: 04/2013

Corruption and Human Rights: Exploring the Relationships

Berihun Adugna Gebeye

October 2012

Human Rights & Human Welfare (University of Denver)

Abstract

Corruption is a global phenomenon which every society faces though its degree of severity varies from country to country. Despite its long history, there is no single universally agreed upon definition of corruption. Moreover, its causes, forms and impacts are diverse and multi - faceted. Understanding corruption by itself is a complex undertaking. However, it is agreed that corruption is inimical to public administration, undermines democracy, degrades the moral fabrics of the society and violates human rights. The pain of corruption touches all the human family but it disproportionately affects the vulnerab le sections of the society. It reinforces discrimination, exclusion and arbitrariness. Corruption is a universal problem undermining universal value - human rights. However, on the contrary, guarantying human rights in general and ensuring non - discriminatio n and participation in particular are useful preventive tools for corruption as they ultimately empower the society and create social accountability. The article explores the relationships between corruption and human rights. It is argued that, the struggle to promote human rights and the campaign against corruption share a great deal of common ground. Both are struggling for the orderly and decent life of humans rooted in dignity and equality. The article concludes the discussion by asserting that an integral approach is essential to overcome the problems of corruption and the violations of human rights.