Corruption, Economic Development, and Insecurity in Colombia

This research evaluates the connection between corruption, economic development, and insecurity in several Colombian departments. This chapter explores the dynamics of these variables using two empirical techniques: the Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) and the Dynamic Panel Data Model (DPDM). DEA is performed to evaluate social performance in terms of corruption, economic development, and insecurity in Colombian departments with a higher level and risk of corruption and insecurity. Dynamic panel data analysis is performed to define the variables that affect corruption, insecurity, and economic development. The DEA model provides evidence that corruption and insecurity have different trends where economic development, natural resources, and political instability are key factors. The dynamic panel data model applied shows that Colombian departments with a higher level and risk of corruption and insecurity have lower economic growth, development, and social conditions, but higher levels of mineral resources and illegal drug activity, as well as the presence of irregular armed groups.