ABSTRACT
Defined broadly as the exercise of political leadership over a course of action, political will is one of the keys to the success of anti-corruption endeavours. Anti-corruption agencies (ACAs) need strong and stable support, especially when they are first established and when they face a significant challenge or a crisis. The experience of the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) in Hong Kong shows that the political leaders’ strong endorsement of its work and support for its activities are very valuable. Strong political will helped secure anti-corruption resources, keep anti-corruption legislation relevant, and enlist public support. However, when political will declines or when leaders themselves are constrained in their ability to provide positive political support for anti-corruption work, the institutionalisation of the agency provides protection against reduced or weakened political support. The institutionalisation of the ICAC is manifested in its impartial and effective enforcement procedures, the consistency between its missions and social norms, and strong public endorsement of its corruption prevention activities.
