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Impact of Corruption Discussed at Schemel Forum
"Corruption is the abuse of entrusted power for illicit gain,” said Marschall, who noted the United States loses one trillion dollars every year worldwide due to the devastation it leaves behind.
Corruption impacts countries politically, economically and socially. Politically, it undermines democracy, traps people in misery and poverty, and threatens the sustainability of natural resources. Economically, corruption is capable of reducing innovation. It contributes to budget deficits and subdues competitiveness. Society is impacted because corruption contributes to violence, disrupts security and undermines trust in both public and private institutions.
Marschall made it clear that “corruption is the symptom of a disease.” He said the actual disease is poor government, explaining that corruption occurs because of the lack of trust and security within a country.
Marschall said, based on a 2009 survey, New Zealand and Denmark ranked as the least corrupt countries. Myanmar and Afghanistan had the most corruption. The United States was listed 19th among the least corrupt nations in the world. Scores were compiled based on an examination of a country’s income level, freedom within businesses and government effectiveness.
For more information about the Schemel Forum, contact Sondra Myers, director of the Schemel Forum, at 941-4089 or myerss2@scranton.edu.
