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.