### Bribery
Bribery is the act of offering, giving, receiving, or soliciting something of value to influence the actions of an official or other person in a position of power. It is an unethical and often illegal practice that undermines the principles of fairness and justice. Bribery typically involves monetary payments, gifts, services, or other advantages and can occur in both public and private sectors. The primary aim of bribery is to secure favorable treatment or to sway decisions in one's favor, thereby gaining an undue advantage that would not have been possible through legitimate means. Bribery is recognized as a form of corruption and is punishable by law in many jurisdictions. The consequences of bribery can be far-reaching, affecting not only the immediate parties involved but also the integrity of institutions and the trust of the general public.
Types of Bribery:
1. Active Bribery: The act of offering or giving a bribe.
2. Passive Bribery: The act of receiving or soliciting a bribe.
Forms of Bribery:
- Cash payments
- Gifts and hospitality
- Kickbacks
- Favoritism (promotions, contracts, etc.)
- Political contributions with strings attached
Legal Framework:
Bribery is often addressed under anti-corruption laws and regulations, such as the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) in the United States, the Bribery Act 2010 in the United Kingdom, and other international agreements such as the United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC).