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Corruption in Bulgaria: Context, Factors and International Comparison

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  • Gancho Ganchev
  • Vladimir Tsenkov
  • Mariya Paskaleva

Abstract

This study is focused on defining the reasons, factors, and consequences of corruption in Bulgaria in a comparative context. A strong non-linear interplay is demonstrated between political stability and corruption perceptions. Analysing the complex interaction between the dynamics of the Corruption Index and the three indicators of quality of public governance, we admit that the indicators are directly related to the effectiveness of government policy in terms of suppressing the potential for corruption, on the one hand, and to the public perception of government effectiveness, on the other. In countries demonstrating high anti-corruption scores, the Political Stability and Control of Corruption indicators have a direct impact on the Corruption Index. In low-rated countries, including Bulgaria, no direct influence on corruption is observed for any of the three indicators of quality of government.

Suggested Citation

  • Gancho Ganchev & Vladimir Tsenkov & Mariya Paskaleva, 2023. "Corruption in Bulgaria: Context, Factors and International Comparison," Economic Thought journal, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences - Economic Research Institute, issue 6, pages 587-620.
    • Handle: RePEc:bas:econth:y:2023:i:6:p:587-620
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    More about this item

    JEL classification:

    • C58 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Econometric Modeling - - - Financial Econometrics
    • D63 - Microeconomics - - Welfare Economics - - - Equity, Justice, Inequality, and Other Normative Criteria and Measurement
    • E44 - Macroeconomics and Monetary Economics - - Money and Interest Rates - - - Financial Markets and the Macroeconomy

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