Corruption erodes trust, weakens democracy, hampers economic development and further exacerbates inequality, poverty, social division and the environmental crisis.

Exposing corruption and holding the corrupt to account can only happen if we understand the way corruption works and the systems that enable it.

Corruption is perhaps best described as a malign force which perpetuates poverty, sows insecurity and robs the world’s most vulnerable people of desperately needed public services. It can manifest in many forms, from criminal acts like bribery, extortion and embezzlement to highly questionable, but sometimes legal practices like nepotism, patronage and cronyism.

Most corruption takes place in the shadows, away from the prying eyes of public scrutiny, and this sometimes makes its precise impact difficult to quantify. But pick any country in the world, a representative democracy, a one-party state or a military dictatorship, and you’ll find a common thread: they’re all grappling with problems with corruption.

Exposing corruption and holding the corrupt to account can only happen if we understand the way corruption works and the systems that enable it.

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The UK's role in corruption

Here in the UK, people often assume that corruption is not a problem.

But our politics has been plagued by various corruption scandals in recent years, whilst much lobbying of government remains in the shadows and big money is used to promote vested interests. The UK, as a global financial hub, plays a pivotal role in the international movement of illicit funds. 

Our country's legal framework and reputation for financial integrity make it an attractive destination for dirty money. 

This can have devastating consequences for developing countries, undermining their economic growth, democratic institutions, and social stability. 

By understanding the UK's role in corruption, we can work together to strengthen our laws, improve transparency, and combat the illicit flow of funds.