27 Nov 2023
CJL’s new working paper details how anti-corruption programs can unintentionally exacerbate conflict and seeks input to better understand this under-examined phenomenon
The link between corruption and conflict is well-studied, and it is understood that conflict and corruption reinforce each other in a cycle that is difficult to break. Anti-corruption efforts play a key role in addressing this vicious cycle, but the unfortunate truth is that in conflict-affected states, anti-corruption programs have the potential to exacerbate conflict and violence in various ways if not mindful of their approach.
CJL’s Conflict Sensitivity in Anti-Corruption Team Lead, Lara Olson, with CJL’s Co-Director, Diana Chigas, bring you the Open for Input Working Paper, “8 Ways Anti-Corruption Programs Can Inadvertently Fuel Conflict”, which sheds light on potential unintended adverse effects of anti-corruption efforts in conflict-affected areas. The paper examines different ways anti-corruption can exacerbate conflict, providing examples of this phenomenon gathered from practitioners in Europe, Africa, and Asia. Because this is an under-studied topic, CJL invites practitioners, researchers, and others to share their thoughts and experiences related to developing conflict sensitivity for anti-corruption programming. If you can help us expand our knowledge in this area, please reach out to us as soon as you can!