Should conservationists pay more attention to corruption?

Abstract

Corruption is known to limit economic development and fuel poverty, but it may also hinder conservation efforts and contribute to biodiversity loss. Here we explore some of the ways that corruption may affect conservation. We argue that corruption has potentially significant implications that should be highlighted and tackled directly. Unfortunately, research into the topic lags behind that in other sectors and empirical studies are scarce and underdeveloped. The result is that, whilst some academics and practitioners cite corruption as a threat to biodiversity and call for efforts to increase transparency and accountability, we currently know little regarding the nature and magnitude of any effects it may have. Whilst precautionary measures can be built into conservation projects to pre-empt corruption, further research would help to shed light on this issue and aid the development of appropriate responses. © 2005 FFI.