Bribery

Graft
Kickbacks
Sweeteners
Payola
Handouts
Giving bribes
Receiving bribes

Nature

Bribery includes the offering, demanding, giving and receiving of any payments or gifts to a person in connection with his official functions, with the intention of improperly influencing a decision. Bribery may be used in political, government, business, sports or any other field where the corruption of an individual can benefit the person doing the bribing.

Incidence

According to Transparency International’s 2023 Global Corruption Barometer, one in four people worldwide reported paying a bribe to access public services in the previous year, with the highest rates in Sub-Saharan Africa and Latin America. The World Bank estimates that over $1 trillion is paid in bribes annually, undermining governance and economic development across all regions.
In 2018, a major bribery scandal was uncovered in Malaysia involving the state investment fund 1MDB. Investigations revealed that billions of dollars were embezzled through bribes and kickbacks, implicating high-ranking officials, including then-Prime Minister Najib Razak, and leading to multiple international prosecutions.

Claim

Bribery is a pervasive and insidious problem that undermines the very foundations of society. It erodes trust in institutions, perpetuates inequality, and stifles economic growth. When corruption becomes the norm, the rule of law is compromised, and the most vulnerable suffer the most. We must confront this issue head-on, demanding transparency and accountability from our leaders. Only by addressing bribery can we foster a just and equitable society for all.

Counter-claim

Bribery is often overstated as a significant issue, overshadowing more pressing global challenges like poverty and climate change. Many view it as a mere transaction rather than a moral failing. In many cultures, it’s seen as a necessary means to navigate bureaucratic inefficiencies. Focusing on bribery distracts from systemic problems that require real solutions. Instead of vilifying individuals, we should address the root causes of corruption and inefficiency in our institutions.