A Context-Specific Study of Construction Sector Anticorruption Framework

Abstract

The construction industry is one of the sectors with the highest number of corruption cases. Construction workers are subjected to a variety of corrupt practices in the course of their work. Corrupt practices have a negative impact on the construction industry’s growth and performance. Several previous studies have revealed a link between culture and corrupt practices. As a result, a context-specific study with a systematic approach to evaluating corrupt behaviors in the construction business is required. In this light, this study addresses the topic by developing an anticorruption framework based on the perspectives of Indonesian construction professionals. An elaborate approach was used in this research consisting of systematic literature review, questionnaire survey, and expert interviews. A systematic literature review was conducted to identify various aspects of corrupt practices in the construction industry. In order to contextualize this study in the Indonesian context, a questionnaire survey was undertaken to examine the extent of perceptions of corruption aspects among Indonesian construction workers. The synthesis of both findings was used to develop an anticorruption framework that was validated through expert interviews. The framework displays a robust system for identifying corrupt practices, challenges, and strategies for eliminating corruption in the Indonesian construction industry. This study helps to understand the underlying reasons and other aspects of corruption in the Indonesian construction industry. Understanding these aspects is critical in order to solve the rampant corruption in the construction sector. The study’s findings can assist stakeholders in understanding various underlying dimensions related to corrupt practices in the construction industry, including (1) general overview of corruption practices, (2) frequency of corruption, (3) forms of corruption, (4) causes of corruption, (5) impact of corruption, (6) mitigation strategies, and (7) challenges in eradicating corrupt practices. A construction sector anticorruption framework was also effectively constructed through a context-specific study in Indonesia. Practically, stakeholders can use the study’s results to take appropriate measures in eradicating corrupt practices and fostering an anticorruption culture in the construction sector. Theoretically, this study contributes by presenting existing corrupt practices in the construction industry and facilitating understanding of the interconstruct relationship of corruption in the industry.