Human Rights and Corruption: Evidence From a Natural Experiment

This article presents empirical findings regarding the relationship between human rights awareness and corruption in provision of services. Drawing on a household database from central India and people's experiences of using public services, the impact of human rights awareness and training campaign is analyzed through a "natural experiment." The study finds that the poor and the less educated are most penalized by corruption. Frequency of bribes paid by family business owners is higher than that of others. In all cases, awareness of human rights reduces incidence of bribery. The article concludes that a human rights awareness and training campaign even when not directed against corruption can significantly reduce corruption. © 2012 Copyright Taylor and Francis Group, LLC.