Anti-Corruption Efforts - Brazil 2018 Understanding the Issues
Many countries around the world struggle with corruption and its impacts on society, including economic problems, social inequality and violence, and public distrust in government. in emerging countries due to obstacles like impunity, insufficient oversight, and widespread patronage. The issue is of chief concern to Brazilian voters following the largest corruption scheme in the country鈥檚 history, as uncovered by the ongoing Lava Jato (Car Wash) Operation, in which more than . Although the operation has become somewhat controversial, and faces allegations of political bias, it is supported .听
Brazil has laws on the books to prevent and reduce corruption, although enforcement has traditionally been lax. For example, Brazilian Law No. 8.429/92, which became effective in 1992, defines civil sanctions applicable to public agents who use their position for personal gain. Brazil is also a signatory of three international anti-corruption conventions: the OECD Anti-Bribery Convention, the UN Convention Against Corruption, and the Inter-American Convention Against Corruption. Nonetheless, impunity is common, particularly at the higher levels of power. Several new developments have strengthened the judicial system鈥檚 capacity to investigate and prosecute corruption, including the introduction of plea bargains and the 2014 Clean Company Act, leading to noticeable progress in anti-corruption efforts. However, as the investigations expose the extent of corruption in Brazil, its citizens鈥 perceptions of corruption have worsened. Transparency International鈥檚 saw Brazil fall from 79th in 2016 to 96th in 2017鈥攊ts worst position since 2012. Public opinion polls reveal that think politicians are not transparent, and honesty (i.e., not being corrupt) is the main characteristic voters are looking for in congressional candidates.
With of deputies named in Lava Jato running for reelection, millions of Brazilian voters are leaning towards more populist candidates, as opposed to candidates from traditional parties. The candidates鈥 own legal standings and their plans to combat corruption are expected to heavily inform voters鈥 decisions.
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Brazil Institute
The Brazil Institute鈥攖he only country-specific policy institution focused on Brazil in Washington鈥攁ims to deepen understanding of Brazil鈥檚 complex landscape and strengthen relations between Brazilian and U.S. institutions across all sectors.听 Our mission is to provide thoughtful leadership and innovative ideas to help democracies evolve and enhance their capacity to deliver results. We achieve this by producing independent research and programs that bridge the gap between scholarship and policy, while serving as a hub for policymakers, scholars, and private sector leaders.听 Read more
