International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS) | Volume III, Issue V, May 2019 | ISSN 2454–6186

Understanding Cultural Causes of Corruption: The Case of Bangladesh

Nurul Huda Sakib

Associate Professor, Department of Government and Politics, Jahangirnagar University, Dhaka, Bangladesh

Abstract:-Corrupt culture influenced significantly people living in society, which they practised intentionally or unintentionally. To some extent, these practices patronise corruption and make a significant impact on society in several ways. Thus, this paper has tried to analyse these cultural causes and cost of corruption in the context of Bangladesh. Based on empirical data collected through Bangladesh Citizens Survey,elite interview in the 2015-2016 period and participation observation, the paper identified five principal cultural causes of corruption in Bangladesh; patron-client (neo-patrimonial) networks, creating a corruption friendly environment in the society, use of ‘religion’ as a tool, low awareness and illiteracy and building corrupt culture through wrong messages in the curriculum. The paper also analyses how these factors contribute to the ‘iron triangle’ in shaping corruption and the impact of these factors in Bangladeshi society.

Keywords: Corruption, Causes of Corruption, Culture, Bangladesh, Patron-client.

I. INTRODUCTION

Corruption can develop systemically, becoming part of a society, its political context, economy and even the culture. Its consequences for elites and masses alike are often disastrous. In both developed and developing countries, governments have fallen due to accusations of corruption (Graycar&Prenzler, 2013). Bangladesh is no different. In Bangladesh, there is afamousstory that is very popular might provide a better understanding of the whole context. A foreign tourist has come to visit Bangladesh. He has travelled all over the country for two weeks. When he returns to his country, his friends and family members asked, how was your visit to Bangladesh? His answer was, there must be someone (God) in the universe, or otherwise, it would be impossible to live in Bangladesh under such conditions. The appeal of this story can be understood because the people of Bangladesh must face corruption at every step of their life. People face corruption from birth to death. It has become a systemic issue that has entered all structures, foundations, divisions and exchanges in society. It is hard for citizens to ignore corruption. Not many sectors in Bangladesh that are free from corruption(Hough, 2013).