Why Are Citizens Afraid to Blow the Whistle on Corruption? Understanding the Impact of Personal Bribery Experiences on Corruption Reporting in Africa

Abstract

Despite growing attention to whistleblowing, fear of reporting corruption persists in Africa. Research largely focuses on organizational factors, neglecting individual and contextual constraints. Using Afrobarometer data (2016–2023), this study examines how personal bribery experiences and country-level corruption indices shape fear of reporting corruption due to retaliation. A hybrid analysis reveals that bribery exposure and perceived corruption increase fear, while control of corruption reduces it. Findings highlight the interaction between individual experiences and broader socio-institutional factors in shaping corruption-reporting behaviours. This study bridges gaps in understanding citizens’ responses to corruption across 35 African democracies, offering broader generalization.

Keywords

Petty corruption risk of retaliation bribery (anti)corruption corruption reporting fear of reporting

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