The Curious Case of Finland’s Clean Politics

Issue Date January 2009
Volume 20
Issue 1
Page Numbers 157-168
file Print
arrow-down-thin Download from Project MUSE
external View Citation

Corruption is a pervasive and persistent problem that affects every country to some degree. Finland has enjoyed remarkable, long-term success in battling corruption, and has managed to cultivate a clean and stable political environment in both policy and practice, in spite of an often tumultuous and unsettled past. How has Finland managed to do this? The answer lies in the continuous effort to enhance and integrate effective policy, efficient institutions, and a vibrant civil society. The Finnish model also holds promise for other countries struggling with corruption, especially those in the process of democratic transition and expansion.

About the Author

Darren C. Zook teaches political science and international and area studies at the University of California, Berkeley. He is currently at work on a study of legal reform and economic restructuring in North Korea.

View all work by Darren C. Zook