F1ID 4090 - Corruption and Anticorruption: Theoretical and Policy Perspectives

Whether it takes the form of embezzlement, bribes, nepotism, rents, or privileged access to public contracts, corruption has devastating effects on the quality of democratic life as well as on social and economic development. The objective of this course is to introduce students to the academic and policy literature on the forms and effects of corruption, and to provide them with a policy perspective on existing tools to fight corruption. The course will explore the scope, determinants and effects of corruption (what forms does corruption take? how can it be measured? what impact does it have?) and will also look at these issues from a policy perspective (what can be done to address corruption? how can citizens, civil society and international organizations fight corruption?).

Learning Outcomes

• Knowledge: Critically engage in theoretical and policy debates on corruption and anti-corruption.
• Knowledge: Explore core governance issues from multiple disciplinary (political science, law, economics, history and sociology) and methodological (case studies, statistics, experiments) perspectives.
• Skills: Incorporate anticorruption tools in policies and projects.
• Skills: Draft impactful policy or advocacy recommendations
• Skills: Think strategically about how change happens.

Professional Skills

• Research & Analysis
• Critical thinking
• Written communication
• Teamwork

None

The instructors will provide oral feedback on in-class presentations and written feedback on exercises.

• In-class presentation in groups of 2 or 3 20%
• Policy note (individual work) 20%
• Advocacy strategy briefing note (group work) 20%
• Mid-term exam (in class) 30%
• Participation 10%

• Attendance: 2 hours a week during 12 weeks / 24 hours a semester
• Required readings : 3-5 hours a week / 60 hours a semester
• Preparation for a presentation: 10 hours
• Research and Preparation for first graded exercise (individual work): 10 hours
• Research and Preparation for second graded exercise (group work): 10 hours