The contribution of integrity agencies to good governance

This article considers how the goals and functions of specialised integrity agencies fit into the broader spectrum of pro-integrity and anti-corruption activities within the public sector. While there has been some debate concerning the appropriate scope and powers of specialised integrity agencies (or ‘watchdog’ agencies), they have been widely regarded in recent decades as fundamental to good governance in western democracies. In countries where these bodies have been instituted, they have often been effective not only in tackling corrupt or fraudulent activities, but also in helping senior office-holders to avoid conflicts of interest and in contributing to a culture of accountability and transparency. However, regardless of their formal powers, integrity agencies cannot be expected to function effectively if inserted as transformative agents into an unsupportive political and business culture. Related institutional arrangements are needed to provide reinforcement for their independent work. In this respect, integrity agencies work best in those democratic countries where accountability and transparency are well incorporated in public sector systems and where political leadership is concerned to support these values. Recent developments in Australia are discussed to illustrate the ongoing challenges of building and revitalising integrity in public institutions.