Corruption in Vietnam rife, party admits
HANOI - Nearly a third of government employees in Vietnam say they would take a bribe if offered, according to an unprecedented survey by the Communist Party as it tries to stamp out pervasive corruption.
The survey, by the party's Internal Affairs Committee and made public yesterday, lists the "top 10" most corrupt government offices and institutions, with land and housing registration offices leading the pack.
The poll in seven cities and provinces, and three ministries, found 32.6 per cent would accept a bribe.
The most common bribe was to overcome "delays" in the processing of paperwork, according to the survey. This was a particular problem at land and housing offices, where home owners often paid extra for faster service.
Traffic police, customs and tax officials were also major abusers.
Vietnam has enjoyed rapid economic growth since it began market-oriented reforms in 1986 but foreign investors say graft is a major hindrance to doing business in the country.
Vietnam's parliament passed the country's first anti-corruption law this week. It requires officials and their relatives to declare their assets.
Reuters - December 2, 2005.
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