Do E-Government Initiatives Reduce Corruption?

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to determine if electronic government initiatives help to reduce corruption. The statistical analysis uses a modified Klitgaard corruption model, which includes as factors government Web portals in addition to monopoly power, the discretion of officials and the accountability of the bureaucracy. Using a six year panel data (2002-2005 and 2008) for 187 countries, it finds that electronic government initiatives have reduced corruption around the world. The authors recommend that international agencies support and promote electronic government projects in addition to other anti-corruption measures.

Keywords: corruption, electronic government, panel data, accountability, discretionary power

JEL Classification: H10, H50, K30, O10, O30