Abstract:
Several studies have argued that corruption has a greater impact on women than men
and that increasing women’s representation in key decision-making positions has a
positive effect in reducing corruption. However, limited scholarly and policy attention
has been devoted to understanding the link between gender and corruption in Botswana.
This paper explores the gendered differences of perceived and actual participation in
bureaucratic corruption in Botswana. By examining Afrobarometer data and undertaking
a documentary analysis, the study finds that while levels of perceived corruption by men
and women in public institutions were high, participation in bureaucratic corruption
(bribery) was considerably lower. Contrary to the notion that corruption has a greater
impact on women than men, this study finds that higher levels of participation across
all public service categories were reported by unemployed men, in particular, having
to give a gift or a favour to avoid problems with the police. Notwithstanding the
scant availability of data, the documentary analysis revealed that non-monetary forms
of corruption such as sextortion (sexual extortion) have been experienced by female
students and undocumented female migrants in Botswana. Nevertheless, this form of
corruption has received little policy attention, despite its potential to undermine gender
equality efforts. Additionally, the study finds little correlation between higher levels of
women’s representation in key decision-making positions (i.e., parliament and cabinet)
and lower levels of corruption in Botswana. There is a need for both the gender and
anti-corruption policy framework to be synthesised in order to specifically reflect on
and respond to the perceived gendered dimensions of corruption. The establishment of
an independent police authority or commission might not only increase levels of public
trust and confidence in the police service, but also strengthen levels of transparency and
accountability.
