Annual report 2007

Abstract

Political corruption undermines public trust in the democratic process. The integrity of the political system is fundamental to the rule of law and the ability of governments to safeguard the rights of its citizens. Where corruption distorts elections and becomes the means for obtaining political power, governments are compromised. Modern democracies require strong party organisations that compete for political power in fair elections; political parties require resources for their campaigns and functioning. Depending on where they come from, how they are distributed and what they are spent on, such resources can undermine democratic values and good governance. Laws and regulations are not always sufficient to safeguard against these negative effects. Promoting transparency in political finance is one of the ways in which TI addresses the undue influence of money and private interests in politics. Public oversight by citizens, civil society and the media plays a critical role in challenging and complementing the finance controls of state agencies.