Why is our beautiful, intelligent and abundant world plagued with issues such as conflict within the nation, corruption, conflict between countries and war?
There is rarely only one cause of the socioeconomic issues faced globally and locally. Moral failings within individuals, coupled with unfair systems, monopolies, financial instability and lack of punishment for those who do wrong, can cause issues. To resolve these issues, we need to understand the difference between why individuals commit wrongdoing and how an entire society can allow this to become an everyday occurrence.
Wanting to gain infinite wealth and power instead of living a life with dignity. This causes bribery, blackmail, illegal kickbacks, bid-rigging and misuse of public office. With individuals justifying their immoral actions by saying everyone does it, having a successful career or attending a prestigious university no longer ensures they will have good morals.
Those in society who are disadvantaged will be punished, whilst those in power will not face any consequences due to their wealth or connections. As highlighted by the World Bank and OECD, corruption can develop from individual actions due to lack of strict enforcement and targeted punishment.
Whilst poverty does not necessarily mean someone will lack morals (similarly, wealth does not mean they will have good morals), there is still significant risk of exploitation due to inequality within the system. Monopolies in administration, politics or economics. Without checks and balances, monopolies will cause cronyism, bias and bullying.
Contractors believe they can’t win a public bid unless they pay bribes under the table. Officials expect this to happen so the whole market falls into distrust. Both good morals and strong laws are needed to have a functioning society.
If a country has strong morals but weak systems, then those with good morals will face extreme bullying and unfair competition, meaning many will give in. If a country has strong systems but poor morals, then citizens will always look to exploit any gaps in the law when they aren’t being watched. To make real progress, both good morals and systems must be developed.
Public procurement is highly prone to corruption due to the large amounts of money involved and the complexity of dealing with public and private sectors. As highlighted by the OECD in 2026, having policies in place makes no difference if they aren’t strictly enforced. Education is based purely on gaining certificates, high exam results and future earning potential. No empathy or sense of duty to the community is taught.
Conflict is seen as an all-out war. Due to historic conflicts, competition over resources and misinformation, leaders will often use this domestically and internationally to divert attention from their failures.
To break the cycle of corruption within systems, a 5-step approach must be implemented. Teaching individuals and families good morals. Ensuring that procurement is transparent, there are independent audits, complaints can be made, whistleblowers are protected, and there is consistency in the punishments given to those who do wrong.
Human suffering increases when individuals put their own interests above their morals; trust is lost due to unfairness, and systems fail to stop abuse of power. However, these issues are not permanent.
Looking at the next decade in Bangladesh, should we focus on improving human morals through education or changing the system to ensure quick and unbiased punishment? Whilst both are essential to sustainable development, the systems need to be the priority. We can’t wait for a generation to become perfectly educated. Systems need to be in place to ensure that there are consequences for wrongdoing. This creates a safe environment for morals to be developed over generations.
A righteous country doesn’t need perfect citizens; it needs a strong culture where honesty is protected, the vulnerable are empowered, and those in power are fully held accountable.
The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author
The writer is the Founder & CEO, SNS Professional Research Academy (SPRA)
