Public employees’ views on corruption and financial crimes: A perceptual study

Abstract

This study assessed public employees' perceptions of corruption and financial crimes in Somalia, using a descriptive research design and a questionnaire to gather data from 200 individuals in various public institutions. Public sector efficiency, soundness, transparency, and corruption-free are all crucial aspects of a well-functioning government, inspiring public confidence in their government. However, corruption and financial crimes are persistent, chronic, and serious issues in all societies, causing resource misallocation and eroding trust; further, it means that no country is immune. Perception studies play a crucial role in bridging the gap between reality and experience. The data was analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS), and the results show that bad governance leads to corruption, which is a difficult problem in public organizations. The research findings also reveal that financial crimes occur within government institutions and are perceived as less serious than other types of crimes. Additionally, the findings strongly indicate that financial crimes and corruption were committed as a result of the control system's shortcomings and deficiencies. Therefore, the paper recommends the government establish a robust governance and control environment, budgetary strategies, robust legal frameworks, and anti-corruption bodies and policies to combat corruption and financial crimes.