Membership criteria for Transparency International

Abstract

Transparency International is an international non-governmental organization dedicated to combating corruption, with a particular focus on its corruption index—especially within the public sector. The organization defines corruption as the abuse of entrusted power for private gain. Corruption harms everyone who relies on the integrity of those in positions of authority; examples include government officials accepting bribes during procurement processes or the embezzlement of public funds. Transparency International operates as a global network comprising over 90 local chapters and developing branches. These bodies combat corruption at the national level through various methods, bringing together stakeholders from government, civil society, the business sector, and the media to promote transparency in elections, public administration, procurement, and business practices. The network also utilizes advocacy campaigns to pressure governments into implementing anti-corruption reforms. Transparency International possesses the skills, tools, expertise, and broad engagement necessary to fight corruption both on the ground and through global and regional initiatives. The need for research is evident in the critical importance of addressing the phenomenon of financial and administrative corruption, which is one of the most complex legal and security challenges threatening the stability of economic and political systems in contemporary international society, and resulting in the undermining of sustainable development programs and the deepening of structural poverty.