HUMAN RIGHTS AND CORRUPTION: A CRITICAL ANALYSIS OF AN INEXTRICABLE RELATIONSHIP

Abstract

Two global concepts existing in our world today have remained a subject for international discourse, the concept of corruption and human rights. The reason behind their repute is majorly based on the multi-faceted impact they wield towards the socio-economic growth and development of a State. However, although these concepts are discussed separately, there is a relationship that exists between them- an inextricable relationship. This is because both corruption and human rights address the welfare of a people in a state and where corruption thrives, human rights is hampered and vice versa. The uniqueness of the relationship between corruption and human rights therefore can be likened to light and darkness, both cannot co-exist in the same place at the same time, rather, one must give way for the other to survive, yet both may be essential for certain purposes. It is on this basis that this paper seeks to analyze the relationship between corruption and human rights particularly in third world countries. This paper works for this by firstly examining the concept of corruption and human rights, and then their forms, theories and causes. This paper also examines how human rights can be used as an effective tool in combating corruption and also recommended strategies that can be put in place in order to eradicate corruption and promote human rights in a State