Examining bribery in Papua New Guinea's public sector

Forms and accountability implications

Datos Bibliográficos

ID20201306
AutoresSamson Tiki (Papua New Guinea University of Technology), Brian Luke (0000-0003-3077-662X, Queensland University of Technology), Belinda Luke (0000-0003-4055-5185), Janet Mack (0000-0002-9059-1187, Queensland University of Technology)
Año2022
Volumen34
Número1
Páginas96-119
Fecha de publicación2022-01-03
Peer ReviewedSí
Open AccessSí
TipoARTICLE
RevistaJournal of Public Budgeting Accounting & Financial Management (JOURNAL)
Identificadores de la revistaISSN: 1096-3367 • E-ISSN: 1945-1814
EditorialEmerald (PUBLISHER)
DOI10.1108/jpbafm-11-2019-0169
OpenAlexW3094414631
IdiomaEN
Citas recibidas1
Referencias citadas45

Purpose The purpose of this study is to examine bribery and its accountability implications within Papua New Guinea's (PNG's) public sector. Design/methodology/approach Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 11 senior public servants from three central government departments. Perceptions, forms and accountability dimensions compromised through bribery were analysed through an actor network theory (ANT) lens to understand the actors contributing to bribery and how it might be addressed. Findings Forms (and variations) of bribery included “promises” by clients, pre-commitments by public servants and expectations/obligations imposed by public servants. Multiple and interdependent actors (including compromised accountability perceptions) are identified. Practical implications Findings provide important insights for public servants and policy-makers within and beyond PNG's government departments, highlighting the associated implications for individuals, the public sector and the country more broadly. Originality/value The incorporation and analysis of accountability dimensions through an ANT lens provides new perspectives on bribery. Further, the significance and extent of compromised accountability dimensions within the network suggests a broken accountability system

Accountability · Business · Interdependence · Political science · Public relations · Public sector · Corruption and Economic Development · Crime, Illicit Activities, and Governance · Law · Public Administration · Public Policy and Administration Research