Corruption, which Transparency International defines as “the abuse of entrusted power for private gain” (Plain Language Guide, 2009), is a major challenge to democracy. This abuse of entrusted power undermines national development by robbing countries and communities of their national wealth, sabotaging development investments across all sectors, undermining the functioning and mandate of institutions, and eroding the public’s confidence in government. 

Young people – particularly young women and those from other marginalized groups – are disproportionately affected by corruption. Already excluded from decision-making processes, corruption deepens the power gap between public officials and vulnerable communities. The lack of civil rights protections for marginalized populations inhibits their access to public services, including justice processes, and therefore weakens their ability to seek redress for corruption. Youth and vulnerable people may be more likely to face demands for bribes, suffer from sexual exploitation, be trafficked, and/or face greater barriers to seeking accountability. Corruption inhibits the delivery of public services which are critical to vulnerable populations (including youth). Since these populations are often excluded from participation, they are unable to assert their voices to demand social accountability. It is clear that transparency and inclusive, responsive accountability systems are necessary both to prevent corruption and to ensure access to justice and other services for all people. Supporting young people and other marginalized groups to lead efforts to counter corruption and strengthen the integrity of government institutions helps develop inclusive, accountable democracy in support of USAID’s DRG objectives.

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