Investigation of the Interaction Effect of Democracy and Security of Property Rights on Corruption in Selected Countries

Corruption is a historical and global phenomenon, which exists in both developed and developing countries. Various cultural, social, economic and political factors affect corruption. Among these, security of property rights and democracy influence financial corruption. In this study, using a panel data system and generalized least squares method, the interactive effects of democracy and security of property rights on corruption are examined in 59 selected developed and developing countries during 2005-2014. The findings of estimations with various indicators of democracy (Polity2, FH, and Political Rights) show that whereas protection of property rights reduces corruption in any political environment, the presence of democracy in society cannot reduce corruption alone. Democracy should be accompanied by high levels of security of property rights in order to affect financial corruption negatively. In addition, while protecting property rights reduces corruption in any political environment, it is more effective against corruption at high levels of democracy.