149. David Jackson on Anti-Corruption in a Discordant World

In this episode of KickBack, host Rebecca Dobson-Phillips is joined by David Jackson, Principal Adviser at the U4 Anti-Corruption Resource Centre, to explore the changing landscape of anti-corruption and the key themes of the new book Anti-Corruption in a Discordant World. Reflecting on three decades of progress in the anti-corruption field, the conversation examines how contemporary political turbulence is reshaping anti-corruption efforts through three lenses: contestation, abuse and innovation. Rebecca and David discuss how anti-corruption initiatives can be challenged, manipulated or even weaponised, while also highlighting innovative responses that build resilience through civil society, new alliances and emerging technologies. The episode concludes with a discussion of anti-corruption's broader role in democratic defence, emphasising the importance of accountability institutions, investigative journalism and social mobilisation in responding to today's increasingly complex political environment. Links to the publication discussed in this episode: Anti-Corruption in a Discordant World: Contestation, Abuse, and Innovation. Edited by David Jackson, Inge Amundsen and David Aled Williams: https://www.taylorfrancis.com/books/edit/10.4324/9781003531920/anti-corruption-discordant-world-david-jackson-inge-amundsen-david-aled-williams