Utilising Communication Paradigms in the Fight Against Corruption in Sierra Leone

Communication campaigns and other innovative communication tools are practical methods to reduce corruption, such as bribery and embezzlement. However, there is a need for longitudinal research and further evaluation studies to demonstrate efficacy (Richards in The Role of Communication Activity in Contributing to the Reduction of Corruption in Sub-Saharan Africa, 2020). Premised on the observations of Kobis (Social Norms of Corruption in the Field: Social Nudges on Posters Can Help to Reduce Bribery. Behavioral Public Policy. Cambridge University Press, 2019) and Richards (The Role of Communication Activity in Contributing to the Reduction of Corruption in Sub-Saharan Africa, 2020), this chapter seeks to make a case that the utilisation of paradigms and models of communication in the fight against corruption is one of the potential anti-corruption strategies. However, as this chapter will argue, applying communication paradigms can only serve as a potential anti-corruption strategy if adequately contextualised, appreciated, utilised, and evaluated. The communication campaigns, programmes and activities of the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) will be examined to ascertain whether any paradigm(s) of communication is/are being utilised in the process. The key research question is: To what extent has the ACC in Sierra Leone applied and utilised the paradigm(s) of communication to its operations, and with what impact? In terms of contribution to knowledge, the chapter will demonstrate that the proper application and utilisation of the elements and paradigms of communication is a crucial prerequisite for success in the fight against corruption.