ETHICAL NORMS: THE BEST CONCEPT IN CORRUPTION PREVENTION TOWARDS A WELFARE STATE

Abstract

Corruption is a global problem that affects both rich and poor countries. Its consequences range from hindering economic growth to undermining public trust in governments. In the case of Indonesia, corruption has led to significant losses for the state, resulting in reduced funding for public services and a decline in public confidence. A recent study examined the relationship between corruption, ethical standards, and public welfare in Indonesia using data from 2004 to 2021. The findings revealed that adherence to ethical norms among state officials is crucial in combating corruption. The study also stressed the importance of political ethics, emphasizing the need for power to be exercised in accordance with the law, democracy, and moral principles. Additionally, the data demonstrated a correlation between corruption levels and poverty rates, with a decrease in corruption perception followed by an increase in poverty, particularly in the year 2020, which was further exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.