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Trust Deficit and Anti-corruption Initiatives

Author

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  • Ismail Adelopo

    (Bristol Business School)

  • Ibrahim Rufai

    (Derby Business School, University of Derby)

Abstract

This study explores the ways in which trust deficit undermines anti-corruption initiatives in a context with systemic corruption. Anti-corruption measures as panacea to systemic corruption are not new, but their effectiveness is debatable. Whilst understanding the causal relationship between corruption and trust remains germane to fighting corruption, a growing number of recent studies advocate better context sensitivity in developing anti-corruption initiatives. Consistent with this, we unpack the perceptions of a significant section of the population in which corruption is rampant to identify factors that could enhance trust in the effectiveness of anti-corruption measures. Using commentaries from Nigerian Netizens on two critical corruption incidents that are significant to corporations, we uncover poignant narratives of perception of incompetence, dishonesty and confusion that undermine the anti-corruption measures in the context. We argue that donors, international organisations and businesses must encourage and support beneficiaries’ governments to secure and sustain trust in the anti-corruption initiatives as a condition for better results.

Suggested Citation

  • Ismail Adelopo & Ibrahim Rufai, 2020. "Trust Deficit and Anti-corruption Initiatives," Journal of Business Ethics, Springer, vol. 163(3), pages 429-449, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:kap:jbuset:v:163:y:2020:i:3:d:10.1007_s10551-018-4059-z
    DOI: 10.1007/s10551-018-4059-z
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    Cited by:

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    2. Chen Ma & Maoyong Cheng & Gerald J. Lobo, 2024. "How Do Tax Agents Respond to Anti-corruption Intensity?," Journal of Business Ethics, Springer, vol. 190(1), pages 137-164, February.
    3. Afzali, Mansoor & Ҫolak, Gönül & Fu, Mengchuan, 2021. "Economic uncertainty and corruption: Evidence from public and private firms," Journal of Financial Stability, Elsevier, vol. 57(C).

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