Only democracy can put an end to corruption in Vietnam
Ho Chi Minh City (AsiaNews) Economically booming Vietnam is among the most corrupt countries in the world and the frequent complaints and trials have failed so far to solve the problem. This has led experts to discuss its causes and find possible solutions.
For experts, political leaders and ordinary citizens alike the country's corruption is not due to any widespread dishonesty but is the consequence of the existing social system. As much as it tries, the government does fight the problem but has been unable to demonstrate what it does to prevent it.
It is a widespread belief that the blame lies with the great power and interfering nature of public institutions and the bureaucratic apparatus. Whatever the domain, the government monopolises all positions of power and decision-making.
Hence it has become commonplace to see "everything" for sale, from "government posts" that provide important responsibilities and great power to exams, school diplomas university and degrees.
Corruption is so endemic that it cannot be blamed on individuals alone; instead, it is systemic relating to the ways the social system and power structures are organised. So much so that despite claims by the government that it is addressing the issue, corruption is in fact going up.
In its annual reports, Transparency International (TI) has shown that Vietnam's corruption levels are rising. From 85th place in 2002 on TI's country corruption list, Vietnam has fallen to 102nd in 2004 (out of 146 countries) and 117th (out of 159) in 2005.
The ubiquitous public sector has not been good for the economy. According to David Dapice, who spoke at a conference on "20 Years of Renewal" in Vietnam back in June estimated that the government is losing a billion dollars US each year. For instance, in construction, losses can reach 20/30 per cent of investment capital. In education, only 40 per cent is thought to be spent in school buildings, textbooks and salaries; the rest ends up in the pockets of corrupt officials.
Dr Hung from Ho Chi Minh University told AsiaNews that in "the last 20 years the country has undergone substantial economic development, but that the population has largely remained poor whilst social problems have increased. The main reason for corruption is the lack of democracy which prevents people from effectively participating in the country's economy, politics and social activities."
"The public administration and the government's policies fall short of what is needed. Corruption is rising among public officials and the government machinery," he said.
"The current situation prevents young people from developing their potential. The whole society has not acknowledged the basic needs of a developing society, namely respect for citizens' rights, personal autonomy, and the rule of law," he noted.
"National leaders," he added, "have failed to respect people's rights; they do not listen. Instead, they'll do anything to get and maintain their positions of power and pocket kickbacks".
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