institutional corruption
[/ˌɪnstɪˈtuːʃənəl kəˈrʌpʃən/]
noun
corrupção institucional
1. Systematic and widespread corruption embedded within the structures, practices, and culture of an organization or governmental institution, where dishonest or illegal conduct becomes normalized and integrated into standard operations
The investigation revealed institutional corruption at the highest levels of the government, involving multiple departments and officials.
A investigação revelou corrupção institucional nos mais altos níveis do governo, envolvendo múltiplos departamentos e funcionários.
2. Corruption that is perpetuated by the organization itself rather than by individual actors, often protected by institutional mechanisms and procedures
Institutional corruption in the police department enabled officers to cover up misconduct for decades.
A corrupção institucional na polícia permitiu que oficiais encobrissem má conduta por décadas.
This term gained significant prominence in Brazilian discourse following major scandals such as the Operação Lava Jato (Car Wash Operation) and the Petrobras corruption case, becoming central to discussions about governmental reform and anti-corruption measures. In the USA, it has been increasingly used in political discourse and investigative journalism to describe pervasive corruption across multiple institutions. The concept emphasizes that corruption is not merely individual wrongdoing but rather a systemic problem requiring institutional reform.
NYC Slang
systemic graft / pay-to-play
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