Global Corruption Report 2008

Reviews / Votes

'Water is a human right and therefore anything which disrupts its reach to the needy needs to be addressed. Corruption is highest on the list of the barriers to the access of water for life and livelihood. It therefore needs to be tackled in a systematic manner as the GCR 2008 does.' Vishwanath Srikantaiah, Advisor, Arghyam 'Corruption in the water governance sector casts a long shadow on economic development- particularly among the poorer developing countries. The various facets of this important Report will not only help to sensitize the associated problems but will also be an effective tool for activists seeking environmental justice, poverty reduction and shared economic opportunities.' Muhammad Zamir, Former Secretary and Ambassador, Vice President, Bangladesh Water Partnership, Dhaka 'Unfortunately, we have brought with us into the current century outdated water policies, governance structures and institutions that do little to protect against water corruption. These corrupt practices include bribery at infrastructural development level, unauthorized water extraction by irrigators and illegal discharge of toxic waters into water bodies. This book not only details how corruption is impacting us all in terms of increased water charges and environmental costs, but also provides valuable recommendations for reform which should help stamp out corruption.' Dr Colin J. Chartres, Director General, International Water Management Institute '[We] welcome this publication and the emphasis on the need for good governance, transparent aid flows and active civil society. Safe water and sanitation are human rights and if poor communities are denied these rights development cannot occur.' Barbara Frost, Chief Executive, WaterAid