Corruption in Business and ID (936M9)
Corruption in Business and International Development
Module 936M9
Module details for 2023/24.
15 credits
FHEQ Level 7 (Masters)
Module Outline
When we study corruption, we often think about it as a problem of countries or individuals. This module focuses more on organisations as actors and on the corruption-related risks that arise when they operate internationally, in the context of business relationships as well as in the realm of international development work.
This module will explore the day-to-day realities of operating in difficult environments, as well as how governments have tried to control corruption using laws and enforcement, with mixed results. This provides an opportunity to give further thought to theoretical frameworks such as rational choice theory, principal-agent theory and the development of norms and culture, as we analyse why corruption is a risk to organisations operating internationally, why tough laws are seen as the answer, and the importance of leadership, culture and political will.
Business and aid may seem worlds apart, but in practice, both private-sector companies and aid agencies seek to achieve objectives in contexts that are high risk for corruption. They face some similar challenges, in ensuring that they comply with local and international laws, assessing risks related to local partners and building an organisational culture in line with their values.
This module begins by introducing and explaining the main patterns of corruption in international business and international development. It draws on the latest research to identify where the key risks lie and discusses what data sources can be used to investigate corruption in this area.
The module then focuses on anti-bribery laws such as the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act and UK Bribery Act. We learn how the legal and regulatory framework is developing, including patterns of enforcement. The module discusses particular risks that arise in certain sectors, such as construction, pharmaceuticals and defence.
For aid organisations, the ethical dilemmas posed by corruption risks can be acute. How should organisations with a mission to relieve poverty and improve social justice react when confronted with demands for bribes? Paying up clearly conflicts with their values, but not paying can also undermine their ability to achieve their goals. Moreover, aid agencies are under pressure to localise their activity, but relying on local partners can mean exposure to greater risk.
The module considers a range of strategies that organisations can use to address corruption risks, including whistleblowing policies, audits and collective action.
What you'll learn:
• You will learn about the corruption risks that face organisations operating internationally and especially in high-risk contexts, and how those are dealt with both in theory and in practice.
• We will take a tour of anti-bribery legislation, look at enforcement around the world, and how organisations have responded to this by putting into place anti-bribery and corruption compliance procedures.
• We will look at the particular risks which surround public procurement and government contracts, and zoom in on some key sectors.
• We will examine a range of tools that can be used to manage and mitigate the risks, notably collective action.
Module learning outcomes
Use suitable analytical tools suitable to explain the patterns of corruption in international business, including major risk areas and sectoral weaknesses
Critically evaluate the main legislative and regulatory initiatives to fight bribery in international business
Analyse the strengths and weaknesses of different corporate responses to the risks of corruption in international business, taking into account organisational characteristics as well as the relevant characteristics of the context
Analyse the theory and practice of voluntary regulation to combat bribery and corruption, and evaluate the prospects of particular initiatives
| Type | Timing | Weighting |
|---|---|---|
| Coursework | 100.00% | |
| Coursework components. Weighted as shown below. | ||
| Essay | A2 Week 2 | 100.00% |
Timing
Submission deadlines may vary for different types of assignment/groups of students.
Weighting
Coursework components (if listed) total 100% of the overall coursework weighting value.
| Term | Method | Duration | Week pattern |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring Semester | Seminar | 2 hours | 11111111111 |
How to read the week pattern
The numbers indicate the weeks of the term and how many events take place each week.
Prof Elizabeth David-Barrett
Convenor, Assess convenor
/profiles/351624
Dr Hannah Richter
Assess convenor
/profiles/341320
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