Epistemological Foundations of International Models for Administrative Corruption and Integrity

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

Department of Business Administration, Allameh Tabatabaei University, Faculty of Management and Accounting, Tehran, Iran

Abstract
Administrative corruption is a major obstacle to sustainable development and good governance. Due to its clandestine nature, accurately measuring this phenomenon has consistently posed a fundamental challenge for researchers and policymakers. Consequently, sophisticated measurement tools are essential to better comprehend the dimensions of this problem and to evaluate the effectiveness of anti-corruption programs.
In this regard, the current study aims to identify and analyze international models for measuring corruption and administrative integrity. Grounded in an interpretive paradigm and an inductive approach, it utilizes a systematic review of authoritative international literature and documents from 20002000 to 20252025. Data were extracted and evaluated through qualitative content analysis of 1616 global reference models.
The findings reveal the evolution of measurement models across four distinct generations: perception-based, market risk, lived experience, and institutional integrity. The results indicate a transition in global literature from abstract and perceptual approaches (first generation) toward structure-oriented and evidence-based approaches (fourth generation) – an approach that perceives corruption as a failure in institutional architecture. These global indicators are predominantly based on perceptual data and tailored to the context of other nations, lacking full alignment with the characteristics of Iran’s administrative system. Therefore, to effectively combat corruption in Iran and achieve statutory objectives, the design and implementation of localized, valid, and measurable indicators are of paramount importance.

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Volume 4, Issue 12
Summer 2026
Pages 219-273

  • Receive Date 06 May 2026
  • Revise Date 13 July 2026
  • Accept Date 15 July 2026