Why corruption is perceived to be higher in poor countries than in richer countries? A critical assessment of the Corruption Perception Index

Denisse Rodriguez Olivari

doi:10.22151/politikon.18.4

Authors

Denisse Rodriguez Olivari University of Manchester

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.22151/politikon.18.4

Keywords:

corruption, poverty, measurement, Corruption Perception Index (CPI)

Abstract

This article will critically examine why corruption is perceived to be higher in poor countries, than in richer countries. It will be argued that narratives corruption has an impact on its definition, perception and measurement of this phenomenon. This article will therefore assess the implications of these three dimensions in the construction of one of the most commonly consulted instrument on the subject, the Corruption Perception Index (CPI). A further analysis of such instrument will help to disaggregate the usual discourse on the subject and supporting ideas behind corruption as it is being measured nowadays.

Author Biography

Denisse Rodriguez Olivari, University of Manchester

Denisse Rodriguez Olivari, 27, just completed a Master in International Development: Politics and Governance at the University of Manchester, United Kingdom. She obtained her Bachelor in Political Science and Government from the Catholic University of Peru. Her interests include politics and development, political representation of women and indigenous, conflict analysis and European and Latin American politics.