The MNC as an agent of change for host-country institutions: FDI and corruption

Most empirical research examines how the institutional environment of corruption shapes the behavior of multinational corporations ( MNCs). In this study, we would like to highlight the other side of the picture: how the presence of MNCs may shape the institutional environment of corruption over time. We propose three avenues through which the MNCs may have an impact on its host institutions: regulatory pressure effect, demonstration effect, and professionalization effect. Based on extensive data on foreign direct investment and corruption for a large sample of countries over the last 30 years, the empirical results are generally consistent with our hypothesis. Such findings provide a glimmer of hope for the future of the host country where corruption is prevalent.