In a world increasingly grappling with systemic corruption, renowned governance expert and former World Bank director Daniel Kaufmann has developed a pioneering State Capture Index to measure and compare the phenomenon across over 170 countries. Kaufmann, who was among the first to testify at South Africa’s landmark Zondo Commission, shared insights on the insidious nature of state capture and its global implications during a recent interview.
The State Capture Index: A Global Benchmark
Kaufmann’s index aims to provide a comparative framework to assess state capture—a form of systemic corruption where private interests covertly manipulate state institutions for personal gain. Unlike traditional corruption metrics, the index evaluates multiple dimensions, including economic, judicial, and media capture.
“Citizens often believe their country is the worst affected, but state capture varies widely,” Kaufmann noted, emphasizing that South Africa’s experience—though severe—differs from nations like Russia, where “full state capture” has taken hold.
South Africa: Averted Disaster, but Challenges Remain
Reflecting on South Africa’s Zondo Commission, Kaufmann acknowledged the country’s progress in curbing state capture but highlighted lingering risks, particularly regarding judicial accountability. Despite the commission’s revelations, only one conviction has been secured to date.
“Full state capture was averted due to civil society, media, and institutional efforts,” he said. “But impunity persists, and the glass is still half empty.” Kaufmann pointed to declining state capture metrics in recent years as a sign of cautious optimism but warned against complacency.
The Role of Markets and Civil Society
Kaufmann stressed the importance of market reactions and citizen mobilization in combating state capture. In South Africa, the 2024 election—which forced the ANC into a coalition government—demonstrated how political polarization can either mitigate or exacerbate capture risks.
“Coalition governments can act as a moderating force,” he said, noting that investors closely monitor such stability. “The global financial community notices when a country resists state capture—and rewards it.”
Constitutional Court’s 30-Year Legacy
The interview coincided with the 30th anniversary of South Africa’s Constitutional Court, which Kaufmann praised as a bulwark against state capture. He lauded Chief Justice Raymond Zondo’s leadership during the commission, calling the transparent investigation “a lesson to the world.”
“The Constitutional Court’s work shows that state capture can be fought,” Kaufmann said. “But the fight is never over.”
Looking Ahead
As Kaufmann’s index prepares for launch, it promises to equip policymakers and activists with data to track state capture trends globally. For South Africa, the message is clear: while progress has been made, vigilance remains critical to prevent backsliding.
“The cost of state capture is borne by every citizen,” Kaufmann concluded. “Awareness, accountability, and action are the only antidotes.”