How corruption threatens human security

Abstract

This essay explores how corruption represents a significant threat to human security across multiple dimensions: economic, political, personal and community. By eroding trust in institutions, undermining the rule of law and enabling other forms of criminality, corruption negatively impacts people’s quality of life and social cohesion. In countries where corruption is rampant, such as Guatemala, there is a direct connection between the prevalence of corrupt practices and the vulnerability of citizens, from the risks they face on poorly maintained roads to receiving inadequate healthcare. Judicial corruption is an especially insidious subset of political corruption, as it undermines the last recourse people may have to seek justice and protection. Combating corruption is not just an ethical or legal matter, but an urgent necessity to improve human security. It requires a comprehensive approach encompassing policies for transparency and accountability, as well as the active participation of civil society and the media. Only then can we begin rebuilding trust in institutions and enhancing human security for all. This essay provides an overview of corruption’s impacts on economic, political, personal and community security. It also analyses levels and types of corruption, with a focus on systemic and judicial corruption. The case of Guatemala is examined to illustrate corruption’s effects on human security. Finally, it argues that judicial independence is essential to empower courts to fight corruption and protect human rights.