Turkey’s Corruption Problem Persists Despite Government Efforts

Despite efforts to combat corruption, Turkey’s fight against graft remains limited, according to international reports. The country’s legal framework, institutional structure, and lack of transparency hinder the effective monitoring of anti-corruption reforms.

Challenges in Combating Corruption

A recent study by GRECO (Group of States against Corruption) criticized Turkey’s narrow definition of bribery offenses, excluding corrupt behavior without an agreement between parties or breach of duty by public officials. The report also highlighted the need for better coordination within the existing system and the creation of an independent body to design and monitor anti-corruption measures.

Limited Progress in Fighting Corruption

While 59% of respondents in a 2010 survey believed that government efforts against corruption were effective, most observers consider progress in the fight against corruption to be limited. Civil society plays a limited role in overseeing the implementation of national anti-corruption measures, and the country’s institutional framework lacks an anti-corruption agency responsible for designing and monitoring reforms.

Key Challenges

• Narrow definition of bribery offenses: Excludes corrupt behavior without an agreement between parties or breach of duty by public officials.
• Lack of coordination: The existing system lacks a clear anti-corruption agency responsible for designing and monitoring reforms.
• Weak institutional framework: MASAK’s functions are subordinate to other government agencies, limiting its effectiveness.
• Limited civil society involvement: Civil society plays a limited role in overseeing the implementation of national anti-corruption measures.

International Recommendations

• Establish an independent anti-corruption agency: To design and monitor anti-corruption reforms effectively.
• Improve party financing legislation: To increase transparency and accountability in political funding.
• Enhance coordination mechanisms: To ensure a more effective fight against corruption.

Conclusion

The Turkish government must address these challenges and implement international recommendations to combat corruption effectively and strengthen public trust in institutions. Until then, the country’s corruption problem is likely to persist, undermining efforts to promote transparency and accountability.