Corruption in Azerbaijan

CORRUPTION IN AZERBAIJAN

ABSTRACT

Governmental corruption is Azerbaijan's largest national problem. People often fail to remember that the majority of the countries around the world are controlled by corrupt, un balanced and greed driven governmental systems. Sadly Azerbaijan falls into this group. In my research I examined countless examples of embedded corruption, lawlessness and abuse of power in Azerbaijan. First, I explored Azerbaijan's unbalance governmental system which is the primary cause for Azerbaijan's corruption. I analyzed several different cases that took place in Azerbaijan. Then, research was conducted on which acts, laws, strategies and organization are currently being used in the country to help with corruption. I examined the Anti- Corruption Act of 2005 along with several other legislatures, and organizations including the TA ( Transparency Azerbaijan). In addition, I explained how the unbalanced governmental system are the driving forces behind all of Azerbaijan's corruption. Lastly, I discussed the importance of taking interest in such a country in order to prevent corruption or any other problems from spreading and creating what is known as a "domino effect". This research comes from a combination of sources; however internet, and interviews are the primary focus.

3

CORRUPTION IN AZERBAIJAN

Corruption Policies of Azerbaijan

There Effects on the Nation

The United States has a reputation of fighting for democracy, equality, and political justice all around the world. Since even before the Vietnam War the United States has directed a large portion of its efforts towards creating peaceful, democratic governmental systems in countries like Israel and Iraq. Some may argue that this is not their place and that the United States has continuously overstepped their boundaries in order to establish what they believe to be "right". However, whether or not boundaries have been crossed the idea of spreading democracy and justice to other countries is still a belief that is essential in creating a world where all of its people can be given the opportunity to live freely (Bagirov, 2003) . This idea gives small countries like Azerbaijan a chance for change.

The countries beautiful architecture and picture perfect landscape may give the illusion that the country couldn't be anything but perfect. However, this is far from the truth. Azerbaijan's people suffer under the rule of an incredibly corrupt governmental system, one that claims to be democratic, but is most definitely not. The embedded corruption, lawlessness and abuse of power in Azerbaijan is what led to this country's downward spiral of an unjust life style for its people. Despite Azerbaijan's small size the population is significantly larger than one may think and its allies include large countries like Turkey. With these factors helping Azerbaijan it is possible that the country may one day have the opportunity for a democratic governmental system.

Azerbaijan is located along the Caspian Sea, a country once a part of the USSR, Azerbaijan gained its independence in 1991 and since has claimed to be a democratic nation. Small in size but heavily populated particularly in its capital city of Baku

4

CORRUPTION IN AZERBAIJAN

Azerbaijan is ruled by a president who seems to be elected by the people. The key term is

"seems". Azerbaijan is a country of many illusions which creates an ideal environment for corruption to take place. With a government that favors the rich and those who are well connected, the rest of the countries citizens suffer (Anti-Corruption Network, 2007).

Corruption in general is defined as dishonest fraudulent behavior by those who are in power. Many nations are aware of the large amount of corruption that takes place in Azerbaijan. Often countries criticize Azerbaijan for their weak attempts to control corruption however; many organizations have not given up hope. For example, GRECO (Group of states against corruption) is continuously trying to involve Azerbaijan in their anti-corruption projects. However, typically Azerbaijan declines.

Corruption takes place in several different areas in Azerbaijan. However, for the purpose of this research paper the focus will be on governmental corruption and how this type of corruption leads to all of the injustices which take place in this country. In order to understand what is exactly is happening in Azerbaijan, one must understand how Azerbaijan's government is structured and operates. The government consists of three branches the executive, legislative and judiciary (Azeri Report, 2011). In Azerbaijan the executive branch holds most of the power. The system is missing "checks and balances" which makes it incredibly easy for one person to become too powerful. This system allows for corruption to take place.

The current polices and strategies that are unstated in Azerbaijan will be explored. Anti-corruption acts, governmental programs and national strategies are all being utilized in order to help control corruption in the country. The Anti-Corruption Act of 2005 along with TA (Transparency Azerbaijan) are the leading policy and organization of the country. After these were instated a long stream of tactics for fighting corruption came into play. Some of these tools have been incredibly successful while others are missing the specificity that is required for fighting such a large problem as corruption. In depth exploration of these policies and strategies that Azerbaijan has adopted is important in discovering ways to help Azerbaijan change.

5

CORRUPTION IN AZERBAIJAN

Social Relevance

Corruption hinders the development of Azerbaijan economically, politically, and socially. The injustices which take place in the country make it nearly impossible for a middle class to develop. The citizens of Azerbaijan are not able to open businesses because of the monopoly which the government has created, those who are unable to pay required bribes to the government cannot keep their businesses open (Sulina, 2006). Therefore almost all of the