The purpose of this paper is to examine the implications of foreign bribery and perceptions that bribery is just a cost of doing business in Africa in light of recent reports and…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to examine the implications of foreign bribery and perceptions that bribery is just a cost of doing business in Africa in light of recent reports and developments in the global attempt to curb bribery and corruption.
Design/methodology/approach
The research relied on primary data from anti-corruption legislation, surveys and monitoring reports and secondary data from publicly available information, journal articles and media reports to analyse recent developments in the fight against corruption with a special focus on Africa.
Findings
The research findings and analysis suggest that foreign bribery, which is illegal but largely carried out with impunity and perceived as a just a cost of doing business in Africa, has heavy costs on developing nations and on corporations and individuals that are prosecuted. Although much has been done to curb corruption, it seems active enforcement takes place in only a limited number of countries. There is still the need for enhanced enforcement by nations, increased societal awareness of effective measures against corruption and improved corporate compliance and responsibility.
Originality/value
The paper contributes practical insights into improvements and lapses in the fight against foreign bribery and corruption. Using recent and relevant analysis, the paper revisits the resilience of bribery and corruption in spite of increased anti-corruption actions and the need for multiple and varied measures. The information provided will be useful for governments, corporations and civil society in the fight against corruption, which requires constant multilateral action and examination.
Details
Keywords
The purpose of this paper is to examine in detail the positive and negative aspects of selected soft law initiatives and the relevance of hard laws in the pursuit of corporate…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to examine in detail the positive and negative aspects of selected soft law initiatives and the relevance of hard laws in the pursuit of corporate social responsibility (CSR).
Design/methodology/approach
Soft law initiatives are categorized into company codes, industry‐initiated codes, and general codes in order to determine more accurately the effectiveness of the codes in enforcing CSR standards. A number of factors relevant in determining the effectiveness of such codes are identified and applied. Partnerships between soft law initiatives and hard laws are illustrated.
Findings
Soft law initiatives are necessary tools in CSR. However, transparency, implementation, monitoring and compliance mechanisms are core areas in which the effectiveness of the initiatives needs improvement. Categorizing the initiatives helps to identify specific areas needed for improving effectiveness.
Research limitations/implications
The initiatives examined are limited to those relevant for human rights, the environment and anti‐corruption. The paper selects a number of relevant initiatives and does not attempt to examine all initiatives in these sectors. The reference to hard laws focuses on anti‐bribery laws.
Practical implications
The paper provides useful information on improving the effectiveness of soft law initiatives, which are the current modes for enforcement of CSR; the relevance of hard laws in CSR; and the role of NGOs in ensuring CSR.
Originality/value
The paper identifies the evolution of universal standards in CSR and calls for a universal approach which aims to address the need for adequate and effective enforcement.