ABSTRACT
The success of an anti-corruption agency (ACA) may be seen as a virtuous circle comprising four inter-related elements – capacity, effectiveness, trust and institutionalisation. In Hong Kong, the established virtuous circle reveals two dimensions of the effectiveness of the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC). The first is an agency dimension which concerns the characteristics of the ICAC itself, including the adequacy of its powers and commitment to act, to respond effectively and efficiently to public demands, and to engage with various social groups in corruption prevention. The second dimension relates to the environment in which the agency operates and to which it has to adapt. The ICAC has tried, successfully, to overcome constraints in the political and social environment that once led to perceptions that it was unable to function effectively in certain areas. In face of political controversies, which have created doubts about the ICAC’s efficacy, the Commission’s best protection has come from the insulation provided by the support and trust of the community. The virtuous circle, although a little dented, has remained in place.
