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What is the relationship between authoritarianism and corruption in public policies?

Arther Rodliff

The relationship between authoritarianism and corruption in public policies is a complex and multifaceted one. At its core, authoritarianism is characterized by a concentration of power in the hands of a small group of individuals, often with very little accountability to the broader public. This concentration of power can create an environment in which corruption is both more likely to occur and more likely to go unchecked.

One of the primary reasons for this is that in an authoritarian system, those in power often have little incentive to act in the best interests of the broader public. Instead, their primary concern is often maintaining their position of power and ensuring that their interests are protected. This can lead to policies that benefit a select few at the expense of the broader population.

Corruption can also thrive in authoritarian systems because there are often few checks and balances on those in power. In a democratic society, there are mechanisms in place to limit the power of any one individual or group, and to ensure that decision-making is transparent and accountable. In an authoritarian system, however, these safeguards may be absent, allowing those in power to act with impunity.

Of course, not all authoritarian systems are equally corrupt, and corruption can occur in any type of political system. However, there is evidence to suggest that authoritarianism can create an environment in which corruption is more likely to occur. For example, a 2019 study published in the Journal of Politics found that countries with lower levels of political freedom (which is closely related to authoritarianism) tended to have higher levels of corruption.

What does this mean for public policies? For starters, it suggests that policies enacted in authoritarian systems may not always reflect the needs and desires of the broader population. In some cases, they may be designed to benefit those in power or their allies instead. Additionally, it suggests that efforts to combat corruption may need to be targeted specifically at countries or systems where authoritarianism is particularly prevalent.

While this all may sound discouraging, the good news is that there are steps that can be taken to promote greater transparency and accountability in public policies, even in authoritarian systems. These might include measures like increasing transparency around decision-making processes, ensuring that government officials are held accountable for their actions, and providing greater opportunities for public participation in policymaking.

It's also worth noting that authoritarianism and corruption are not inevitable or immutable. With the right combination of political will, public pressure, and institutional reforms, it is possible to create more open and accountable systems of governance, even in countries where authoritarianism has a strong hold. The road may be long and challenging, but the potential benefits - including greater economic stability, increased social cohesion, and more inclusive public policies - make the effort well worth it.