Corruption, whatever its form, is a major obstacle to economic and social development.  It has the dubious destination of being universally practiced yet has enormous political, economic, and social costs.  Its harmful effects are especially severe on the poor and those least capable of paying the high costs often associated with fraud, bribery, and the misappropriation of funds.  Corruption in its most insidious form has the power to sabotage good governance, the economy, and moral integrity.

WorldCom recently joined the infamous ranks of Enron, Global Crossing, and Tyco as U.S. companies which over reported profits.  Their corrupt actions were undertaken at the expense of it's workers, shareholders, and worker pension plans. The actions of these companies have undermined consumer confidence and reeked havoc on domestic and international financial markets.  President Bush has promised a full investigations into these scandals and has called for more corporate responsibility.  Is this enough to ward off future such practices? 

In Latin America corruption has permeated the judicial system, law enforcement, executive branches of government, and other facets of society in some countries.  To reduce the corrosive impact of corruption a coordinated effort among citizens, elected officials, public servants, and the private sector is required.  Increasing political accountability, strengthening civil participation, and ensuring institutional restraints on power are important. 

For this edition of Conversemos we talk about "Corruption in the Americas", its root causes and measures to prevent it. 

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CONVERSEMOS EN ESTA NOCHE is broadcast live every Thursday at 2300-0000 UTC (7:00-8:00 p.m. EDT) on WORLDNET Television. WORLDNET is the satellite television service of the Voice of America and the International Broadcasting Bureau.  CONVERSEMOS EN ESTA NOCHE is a public affairs/viewer call-in television series that is simulcast with the Voice of America.

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