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Understanding “corruption” in regulatory agencies: The case of food inspection in Saudi Arabia

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  • Saad Al‐Mutairi
  • Ian Connerton
  • Robert Dingwall

Abstract

Corruption is a relatively neglected topic in studies of regulatory agencies. The label is applied to a wide range of deviations from behavioral standards ultimately derived from Weber's account of the ideals of Prussian bureaucracy. This paper draws on a study of the work of Saudi Food Inspectors to argue that it is unhelpful to reduce a complex phenomenon to simple allegations of malpractice that can be managed by disciplinary sanctions. Our data show that irregular behavior by street‐level agents may be deeply embedded in the expectations that members of a society have of one another. It is less a matter of personal gain than of maintaining one's recognition as a fellow citizen. Such behavior is not easily changed through sanctions directed at individual inspectors. Our study does not exclude the possibility that irregular behavior can be motivated by personal gain, and properly managed by criminal or similar penalties. However, it does propose that research should be more sensitive to the contexts within which irregular behavior occurs rather than treating “corruption” as a uniform and homogenous phenomenon.

Suggested Citation

  • Saad Al‐Mutairi & Ian Connerton & Robert Dingwall, 2019. "Understanding “corruption” in regulatory agencies: The case of food inspection in Saudi Arabia," Regulation & Governance, John Wiley & Sons, vol. 13(4), pages 507-519, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:wly:reggov:v:13:y:2019:i:4:p:507-519
    DOI: 10.1111/rego.12247
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Oskar Kurer, 2005. "Corruption: An Alternative Approach to Its Definition and Measurement," Political Studies, Political Studies Association, vol. 53, pages 222-239, March.
    2. Pranab Bardhan, 1997. "Corruption and Development: A Review of Issues," Journal of Economic Literature, American Economic Association, vol. 35(3), pages 1320-1346, September.
    3. Oskar Kurer, 2005. "Corruption: An Alternative Approach to Its Definition and Measurement," Political Studies, Political Studies Association, vol. 53(1), pages 222-239, March.
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