MSI Assists USAID with Anti-Corruption Assessment Framework MSI recently developed USAID’s Anti-Corruption Assessment Handbook. The Handbook, issued in February 2009, provides USAID Missions and their implementing partners with an integrated framework and practical methodology to conduct tailored anticorruption assessments across keys sectors and functions. Click here to read the USAID Anti-Corruption Handbook, authored by MSI. Click here to read more about USAID and MSI’s anti-corruption assessment approach.

MSI Studies Lessons Learned in Fighting Corruption MSI was retained by USAID to derive lessons learned from its broad experience implementing Anti-Corruption programming under the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) Threshold Programs from 2005-2009. Examining $250 million of diverse programming in 14 different countries, MSI devised a unique methodological approach that allowed for meaningful comparison of program activities across sectors by grouping the project by objective. Important lessons learned were identified for activities designed to 1) improve the statutory framework, 2) identify and expose corruption, 3) investigate and prosecute corruption cases, 4) reduce opportunities for corrupt acts, 5) combat a culture of corruption, and 6) build public perception of government as reforms take place. MSI’s findings, based upon a thorough documentary review, a field survey of and interviews with USAID personnel, and a 3-day workshop with USAID, Dept of Defense, and MCC personnel are set forth in the report (link)Lessons Learned Fighting Corruption in the MCC Threshold Countries: The USAID Experience. (close link) As expressed by Karen D. Turner, Director, Office of Development Partners, this document is intended to "shape future programming in the anticorruption arena, whether in partnership with MCC or by USAID using its own resources." Click here to read the report, authored by MSI.

We have experience in all geographic regions – often coordinating with major international donors - to support reforms for government, civil society, the mass media, and the private sector, including:

• Administrative and Regulatory Reforms. MSI helps governments streamline and simplify institutions, eliminate administrative barriers, deregulate bureaucratic procedures, and develop one-stop shops, among other governmental innovations.
• Legal and Judicial Reforms. MSI supports legal drafting and advocacy for justice sector reforms, court administration improvements, investigation and prosecution enhancements, judicial ethics, and legal clinics for victims of corruption.
• Public Finance Reforms. MSI designs and implements projects that increase transparency and accountability in the budget and procurement processes, government auditing, and customs and tax administration sectors.
• Local Governance Reforms. MSI implements programs to improve the quality and predictability of public service delivery, expand citizen participation in local government, promote open hearings, restructure permit and licensing procedures, and ensure that local government is responsive to citizen needs.
• Corporate Governance and Private Sector Reforms. MSI works with businesses and associations to implement codes of conduct, establish open dialogues with government, and advocate for deregulation and legal/procedural reforms.
• Multi-Sector Programs. MSI conducts targeted programs in all sectors that are vulnerable to corruption, including health, education, environment, energy, extractive industries, among others.
• Civil Society and Mass Media Advocacy. MSI develops the capacity of civil society and the mass media to put significant pressure on government to implement reforms that fight corruption. This work includes coalition building, public-private partnerships, watchdog initiatives, public awareness campaigns, investigative journalism, and active advocacy programs. MSI often administers significant grant programs to mobilize civil society.
• Policy and Strategy Development. MSI facilitates the development of program strategies for donor organizations and governments to target anticorruption goals based upon international best practices and lessons learned from past experience.
• Assessments, Monitoring and Evaluation. MSI developed USAID’s Corruption Assessment Handbook and has conducted many countrywide and sector-specific corruption assessments that include recommendations to remedy vulnerabilities. We also have designed many corruption indicators, conducted quantitative surveys, and completed M&E assignments of anticorruption programs.