Corruption and Human Rights: Case Studies from the Global South

There is no single definition of corruption, but it is widely understood as a far-reaching global phenomenon that undermines economic development, human rights, and political stability. Those involved in corruption may be government officials and/or those with private interests. Forms of corruption might include bribery, nepotism, embezzlement, kleptocracy, or state capture. The United Nations (UN) and international organizations have recognized and elaborated the many linkages between corruption and human rights. Such linkage goes both ways. Corruption can undermine collective and individual human rights, erode respect for the rule of law, and thrives more easily when governments fail to respect, uphold, and protect rights and freedoms. On the other hand, where governments ensure the rule of law and respect for human rights and anti-corruption activists are allowed to expose and combat corruption, the phenomenon may not arise as easily.