TED: How to expose the corrupt | Peter Eigen

The video discusses the challenges of governing a globalized economy, focusing on the asymmetry between the global market and the limited capacity of traditional governments. It highlights the pervasive issue of corruption, particularly in East Africa, and its detrimental effects on economic policy and poverty. The speaker shares personal experiences from working with the World Bank and describes efforts to combat corruption through collective action, leading to the OECD Convention against foreign bribery. The role of civil society in improving governance and promoting transparency is emphasized as crucial for creating a better world.

What is one of the main challenges in governing the global economy according to the speaker?

• Excessive taxation

• Lack of technological advancement

• Limited capacity of traditional governments

• Overpopulation

What was the speaker's role at the World Bank?

• Director of the World Bank Office in Nairobi for East Africa

• Legal Advisor

• Head of Environmental Projects

• Chief Financial Officer

Why did the World Bank initially prevent the speaker from addressing corruption?

• It was not a priority

• It was considered a local issue

• It was too expensive

• It was against the World Bank's Charter

What was a major consequence of systematic corruption in international projects?

• Technological innovation

• Poverty and conflict

• Economic prosperity

• Increased tourism

What was the OECD Convention's main objective?

• To increase foreign aid

• To reduce taxes

• To criminalize foreign bribery

• To promote free trade

What role did Transparency International play in combating corruption?

• They lobbied for tax reductions

• They organized protests

• They developed concepts of collective action

• They provided financial aid

What is the 'prisoner's dilemma' in the context of international bribery?

• A situation where companies are unable to innovate

• A situation where companies refuse to cooperate with each other

• A situation where companies are forced to bribe to remain competitive

• A situation where companies compete to offer the lowest prices

What is the speaker's view on the potential of civil society?

• Civil society can play a crucial role in governance

• Civil society is ineffective

• Civil society should be dissolved

• Civil society should focus on local issues only

What is necessary for civil society organizations to effectively contribute to governance?

• Transparent financial governance and participatory governance

• Less government interference

• More funding

• More volunteers

What does the speaker suggest is needed for creating a better world?

• More international trade agreements

• Higher taxes

• Collaboration between civil society, government, and private sector

• Increased military spending