Enabling sustainability by detecting early warning signs of corruption in government institutions

Abstract Despite executing notable measures to prevent corruption, the number of cases continues to surge halting global progress to sustainable development goals (SDGs). The situation is particularly alarming in developing countries as indicated by the increase in the corruption perception rate due to the lack of an effective system identifying early warning signs of corruption (EWSC). This study aims to scientifically detect EWSC and recommend prevention strategies to accelerate progress to achieve SDGs. We followed a qualitative approach and employed the Pentahelix model to highlight the role of various stakeholders in generating EWSC based on corruption perception. To achieve the objectives of this study, we conducted 25 structured interviews with the government, academics, mass media, business societies and community members representing potential stakeholders of corruption prevention. The obtained responses were transcribed and analysed using thematic and content analysis techniques. The findings recommend four key strategies namely ‘developing an effective corruption prevention system’, ‘creating corruption data and information transparency’, ‘collaborating with anti-corruption agencies and communities’, and ‘improving corruption education and research’ to prevent corruption and fully enable SDGs targets. The findings suggest to render a scientific approach to identify corruption and develop robust strategies for corruption prevention to ensure that emerging economies stay on track to achieving SDGs.