Read Online Smoke, Mirrors and Deflection: An Accountant's Experience of International Aid DOC
Corruption has always been a problem. It is an issue that is growing throughout the world, offering unjust benefits to the rich while depriving the poor of their due. Indeed, the issue of corruption is best measured by its impact on the most needy rather than extent of its range. There are few nations in the world where poverty is more of a problem than the poorer countries located on the continent of Africa. A continent of which the author has vast and unusual experience. Yet, despite the efforts of some, in certain countries corruption is so endemic, especially with regards to international aid, that only a tiny fraction of the monies donated end up where they are needed. And where they are intended. John worked for much of his life as a consultant, sponsored by the Government, for many nations in Asia and Africa. He learned of some astonishing contrasts: the joy, friendliness, trust and support of ordinary people while those up the hierarchy took significant portions of the monies intended to make these people's lives better. Even more amazing was that he encountered people who were fundamentally good, and caring, but for whom the system of corruption was so ingrained, so everyday, that they thought it normal. Not wrong, or dishonest, just as things should be. Not every country was like this, with some Governments run by leaders determined, with varying degrees of success, to challenge and change the way aid was distributed. In his book he outlines some of the successes and failures of both himself, working as an accountancy expert supporting Governments, and those who control the national purse strings. John also puts together his own vast experience to suggest that corruption could be tackled, relatively easily and with likely success. Find out how this experienced accountant and international financial advisor suggests tackling endemic corruption in this short but fascinating insight into a world few people experience.
