Corruption: Economic Analysis and International Law

'It is now rather common to speak of ‘transnational law’ as an approach to legal research that transcends national frontiers and domestic regulatory policies. Such a model accepts that rules can be generated not just by governments or by international cooperation, but also by individuals, corporations and various other organizations. As clearly evidenced by this book, unfortunately, one of the most successful transnational systems is the one based on corruption. The authors however, never to be defeated, show through a rigorous legal and economic analysis how instead, to develop policies and rules to fight what is sometimes perceived as an unavoidable phenomenon. In short, an invaluable addition to the study of this still largely unexplored area.'
– Andrea Biondi, Kings College London, UK

'In everyday understanding, corruption means degradation, decomposition, degeneracy, depravity. The concept is common to all cultures, and all dictionaries provide for very close descriptions. Corruption, in a specific connotation, is also defined by the statutory law of most - if not all - States as a a criminal offense: it is an illicit trade of official functions, committed betraying the very reason ('the duties') of one's office. Corruption alters, dismantles and depravates the idea of a civil society, as it critically wounds the bond of trust that lays at its very basis, and, thus, the deepest foundation of all social relations. To mariginalise corruption, and heal the damages it causes to society at large, it is necessary, first, to investigate what corruption is. By thoroughly analyzing the phenomenon per se, and offering a review of possible remedies against it, this book brilliantly and with exceptional efficacy, contributes to such an indispensable goal.'
– Gherardo Colombo, formerly Public Prosecutor, Milan Public Prosecutor's Office and Judge, Supreme Court of Italy

‘To effectively combat corruption globally, the collection and dissemination of knowledge is crucial. This excellent book takes us a step forward in our collective efforts to better understand the causes and effects of corruption from an international perspective. Through its detailed analysis of the economic impact of corruption in a diverse range of countries, this publication provides us with a new resource to draw on in our future efforts to reduce corruption together worldwide.’
– Dimitri Vlassis, United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, Vienna, Austria