Corrupting perceptions: The impact of the united nations convention against corruption on corruption perceptions index scores

Abstract

This paper examines the impact early ratification of the United Nations Convention against Corruption has on a country’s Corruption Perceptions Index score. It builds on much of the recent scholarly work that explores policy diffusion and the role of early adopters (or leaders) in creating the space for later adopters (or laggards) to adopt particular policies and the broader impact this has on country performance in a key international index. It tests empirically the impact of early ratification upon both the diffusion of policy and, more generally, the role of international legal instruments in comparative public policy.