Corruption, Economic Analysis and International Law (original) (raw)

2014, Corruption, Economic Analysis and International Law (Edward Elgar)

'Although corruption has affected human society since its very birth with different intensity over time, it is not confined to any particular geographic region, country, social or political system or culture. Recently there has been widespread international determination to effectively curb such crime. Corruption: Economic Analysis and International Law by Marco Arnone and Leonardo Borlini reviews the richness and complexity of the ongoing research on corruption and shows the value of integrating a comprehensive economic understanding of its consequences and a critical assessment of the several legal instruments promoted by major intergovernmental organizations on this issue. This approach is particularly timely because, on the bright side, this book shows that economic crises may lead to greater social responsiveness in the face of attempts to drain public resources through corruption and bribery. The use of a wide range of economic models and the acute analysis of the contemporary evolution of traditional institutions belonging to the realm of international and European law represent two additional values of this work. Finally, the personal commitment of both authors to scientific research and professional activity related to public governance and anti-corruption reforms make this book a valuable source for further thought and analysis for scholars, public servants and practitioners.' Giorgio Sacerdoti, Professor of International and European Law, Bocconi University and former Chairman of the WTO Appellate Body and Vice President of the OECD Working Group on Corruption 'It is now rather common to speak of 'transnational law' as an approach to legal research that transcends national frontiers and domestic regulatory policies. Such a model accepts that rules can be generated not just by governments or by international cooperation, but also by individuals, corporations and various other organizations. As clearly evidenced by this book, unfortunately, one of the most successful transnational systems is the one based on corruption. The authors however, never to be defeated, show through a rigorous legal and economic analysis how instead, to develop policies and rules to fight what is sometimes perceived as an unavoidable phenomenon. In short, an invaluable addition to the study of this still largely unexplored area.' Andrea Biondi, Kings College London, UK 'In everyday understanding, corruption means degradation, decomposition, degeneracy, depravity. The concept is common to all cultures, and all dictionaries provide for very close descriptions. Corruption, in a specific connotation, is also defined by the statutory law of most – if not all – States as a a criminal offense: it is an illicit trade of official functions, committed betraying the very reason ('the duties') of one's office. Corruption alters, dismantles and depravates the idea of a civil society, as it critically wounds the bond of trust that lays at its very basis, and, thus, the deepest foundation of all social relations. To mariginalise corruption, and heal the damage it causes to society at large, it is necessary, first, to investigate what corruption is. By thoroughly analyzing the phenomenon per se, and offering a review of possible remedies against it, this book brilliantly and with exceptional efficacy, contributes to such an indispensable goal.' Gherardo Colombo, formerly Public Prosecutor, Milan Public Prosecutor's Office and Judge, Supreme Court of Italy 'To effectively combat corruption globally, the collection and dissemination of knowledge is crucial. This excellent book takes us a step forward in our collective efforts to better understand the causes and effects of corruption from an international perspective. Through its detailed analysis of the economic impact of corruption in a diverse range of countries, this publication provides us with a new resource to draw on in our future efforts to reduce corruption together worldwide.'