Corruption Crimes and Their Impact on Economic and Social Development

Abstract

This study aimed to shed light on the phenomenon of corruption crimes from multiple perspectives. It first seeks to clarify the concept of corruption crimes with precision, while identifying the most prevalent types in societies, such as bribery, embezzlement, abuse of power, and money laundering. The study also explores the causes and factors contributing to the spread of corruption, and examines how corruption impacts economic and social development. Additionally, it analyzes effective strategies and mechanisms to combat corruption crimes both at the local and international levels, with emphasis on the importance of international cooperation between states and organizations concerned with anti-corruption efforts. The study further highlights the role of promoting transparency, accountability, and fostering a societal culture that rejects corruption. The study reached the following conclusions: Corruption crimes have led to the depletion of public resources and the obstruction of developmental projects, which has contributed to economic decline and increased reliance on the informal economy. The widespread presence of corruption has also eroded citizens' trust in government institutions, weakened the legitimacy of public authority, and resulted in reduced levels of political and social participation. Furthermore, corruption has caused an imbalance in the distribution of wealth and opportunities, exacerbating poverty and unemployment rates and deepening social and economic disparities within Libyan society. Administrative corruption has also contributed to institutional inefficiency and the deterioration of essential public services, particularly in the sectors of health, education, and infrastructure.