THE LEARNING SERIES
Rethinking Corruption Through the Lens of Social Norms
The purpose of the Social Norms and Endemic Corruption Learning Series is to fill the gap between knowing that social norms matter and knowing how to change them. Drawing on years of collaboration with partners, the Series distills lessons for professionals working in governance, transparency, and integrity, as well as other fields where corruption frequently undermines development outcomes. The Series is updated periodically with new chapters that build on evolving insights and practical experience.
“The anti-corruption field is showing increasing interest in understanding how social norms drive corrupt practices and block anti-corruption action. But, believing that the field should engage with social norms is a different matter from knowing how to do it.”
This introductory chapter explains why social norms matter to corruption. It lays out a four-step process to help practitioners integrate social norms change into programming.
Chapter 1: Introduction
Chapter 2: Getting Started: Setting Your Organization Up For Success
“The work required to integrate social norms into anti-corruption programming is often underestimated — leading to shortcuts, overload, and even abandonment. Taking stock of your organization’s readiness can be a springboard to success.”
Integrating social norms demands internal shifts — from a focus on behavior and realistic timelines to better-equipped teams. Chapter 2 outlines how aligning staffing, budgets, and skills with the demands of norms change is key to sustainable impact. This chapter also teases out the nuances between gender and social norms and the pitfalls of not knowing the distinctions.
Chapter 3: Behavior Change
The next installment of the Learning Series will delve into corrupt behaviors and why it's so important for practitioners to identify them.
The Learning Series is regularly updated with new chapters that reflect emerging insights and practical experience.
Glossary
Quick definitions aimed to explain key terms and concepts used throughout the Learning Series. Especially helpful if you’re new to social norms, anti-corruption programming, or just want a refresher.
Endnotes
Citations and references that support the content across all chapters in this series. Includes source material, foundational research, and additional context for key ideas.
Want to know more about social norms?
Explore our Social Norms Roadmap to find more great resources
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