COMBATING THE BRIBERY OF FOREIGN PUBLIC OFFICIALS AND THE “ART OF PERSUASION”: THE CASE OF ALSTOM AND THE ENERGY SECTOR

Abstract

This article explores some of the developing strategies designed to tackle the supply side of transnational corruption through the “Art of Persuasion” i.e. how to “persuade” commercial organisations, no matter how powerful, to commit to good governance and integrity in their business. In doing so, it uses Alstom SA (hereinafter Alstom) as a case study. The article is divided into three parts. Part 1 explores some of “persuasive” techniques designed to combat the bribery of foreign public officials and to enhance corporate good governance and integrity. Part 2 explores some of the lessons and challenges from the Alstom case whilst Part 3 contains a Conclusion which re-visits the “Art of Persuasion” .