Despite the importance of transparency, fraudulent activities often overshadow procurement processes. Without proper oversight and fair competition, contracts can be awarded secretly, leading to corruption.
For instance, between February and November 2020, over 20% of the UK’s procurement processes raised concerns about corruption. Political influence can sway bids, and backroom deals can corrupt decision-makers. The result? Higher costs and lower quality.
While regulations should protect against corruption, they’re often manipulated to serve dishonest interests. Cases like breaches of The Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) show how companies exploit loopholes and use influence to win profitable contracts. Profit motives can often overshadow ethical considerations, with compliance becoming less of a priority.
Addressing this challenge requires a combined effort based on fundamental principles and technology. Competition needs to be safeguarded, with tools like e-auctions ensuring equal opportunities for all bidders. Transparency should be non-negotiable, with clear disclosure throughout the procurement process and digital audit trails to back it up.
Practical steps like open contracting, price benchmarking, and integrity pacts provide concrete ways for reform procurement. Specialised training, standardised contracts, and e-procurement systems such as DeepStream can enhance accountability and efficiency.
Ultimately, fighting corruption in procurement depends on political will - the determination to prioritise integrity over personal gain. It requires commitment from governments, businesses, and civil society to uphold transparency, accountability, and ethical behaviour. Only then can we ensure that public procurement serves its intended purpose: to advance the common good and maintain the people's trust.
