Corruption persists as a challenge to the consolidation of Latin American democracies and to their economic development. This text examines the relationship between democratic and market reform and corruption, including national strategies for its reduction and the antecedents of corrupt practices.

Corruption persists as a challenge to the consolidation of Latin American democracies and to their economic development. Contrary to many expectations, policies to reduce the size of government, such as the privatization of state firms, have not proved a cure against corruption. In some cases, economic liberalization seems only to have worsened the problem. This work examines the relationship between democratic and market reforms and corruption, including national strategies for its reduction. Authors from across the region, the US and Europe discuss the nature, methods and historical antecedents of today's corrupt practices, including issues of institutional design, the role of international actors and culture. The chapters raise many questions. Can corruption in some cases be economically efficient? Does the transition to democracy and free markets increase or reduce opportunities and incentives for corruption? What policy responses are in effect at the local, national and international levels, and are they likely to be effective? How is a growing business culture across Latin America likely to influence efforts for improved government transparency and efficiency?