Institutionalized corruption in Indonesian irrigation: an analysis of the upeti system

Loading...
Thumbnail Image

Date Issued

Date Online

Language

en

Review Status

Peer Review

Access Rights

Open Access Open Access

Share

Citation

Suhardiman, Diana; Mollinga, P. P. 2017. Institutionalized corruption in Indonesian irrigation: an analysis of the upeti system. Development Policy Review, 20p. (Online first)

Permanent link to cite or share this item

External link to download this item

DOI

Abstract/Description

This article analyzes the internal logic of the upeti system in Indonesian irrigation and brings to light how corruption rules are shaped through complex socio-political relationships reflected in the organizational culture of the irrigation agency. Based on 100 interviews with water sector professionals the article highlights: (1) the importance of social relations in shaping institutionalized corruption, (2) how the upeti system justifies corruption practices as the prevailing social norm, and (3) the need for structural change to eradicate corruption. Illustrating how corruption rules are embedded in project management procedures, with projects highly dependent on donor funding, the article highlights the importance of the issue for international agencies and the need to be more politically grounded in promoting their development agenda.

Author ORCID identifiers

Organizations Affiliated to the Authors