Least corrupt, dirty volts: reassessing the global corruption indices and the Swiss Paradox

Abstract

Purpose – This paper aims to examine the Swiss Paradox and bias of dominant global indices, such as Transparency International, despite Switzerland being among the leading safe havens for illicit wealth. The paper argues that while corruption is widespread in Africa, countries in the Global North, including Switzerland, are enablers and accomplices in transferring illicit wealth. Additionally, the paper uses the concept of Afropolitanism to challenge the Western-centric narrative of corruption in Africa. It aims to contribute to the literature by questioning the narrative that “safe haven” countries are the least corrupt. Design/methodology/approach – The paper uses a desktop methodological approach, drawing from existing literature on the subject, African case studies, asset recovery measures, and various corruption indices. Findings – The analysis conducted in this paper suggests that although some illicit funds from African states may have been recovered, Africa’s perception of Afropolitanism should be used to inform and gauge African corruption, rather than relying on biased Western-oriented indices that seem to stigmatise corruption in Africa. Practical implications – This study advances the view that corruption is not endemic to a particular region or country. Social implications – This study changes the narrative about how one should view and appreciate the global corruption indices. Originality/value – The value of the contribution lies in its effort to reassess the issue of African corruption through the perspective of global corruption indices and to demonstrate the potential of the Swiss Paradox.