Review of the Factors Leading to Corruption in Russia

This article examines the major factors leading to corruption in Russia. We explore the historical, economic, social, political, and cultural factors influencing the formation and strengthening of corrupt practices. To this end, the impact of the Soviet era and periods of transformation on management structures and public mentality, creating the preconditions for corruption, is examined in the context of history. In the economic aspect, the lack of competition, inefficiency of the labor market and weakened property protection, which contribute to corruption schemes in public institutions, are discussed. The educational and cultural systems are investigated in the context of the formation of the mentality of society and its attitude towards corruption. Insufficient attention to ethics in education and the normalization of corrupt practices in culture can help maintain corruption. When analyzing the structural features of public administration, problems in the system of control, transparency and responsibility are identified that pose a threat to the effective fight against corruption. Political aspects, including the lack of separation of powers and the presence of corrupt political elites, which may contribute to corruption at the decision-making level, are also explored. We proposed theories of historical/political influences on corruption and the theory of the control and responsibility system.


Introduction
Corruption is the practice of abusing one's official position for one's personal benefit.This includes the use by a public official of his authority, power, ties, and resources for the purpose of achieving personal gain, which is contrary to the law and ethical standards (Jain, 2001).In today's world, corruption, unfortunately, is present in every society and every state.It is almost impossible to find a country that can claim to have completely avoided this problem.A feature of modern corruption is its international nature, which means that it affects different countries around the world.This phenomenon is due to several factors, among which globalization is the key one.Globalization creates economic transparency of national borders and ensures the free movement of capital, goods, and labor.An important aspect is also the criminalization of national economies (Bocharnikov, 2015).

Problem Statement
Corruption, as a social phenomenon, poses a serious challenge to the development of states and societies on a global scale.In the Russian context, the issue of corruption becomes central to discussions of the effectiveness of public administration, fairness, and the creation of favorable conditions for sustainable socio-economic development.This study aims to provide a detailed overview of the factors that have a significant impact on the emergence and consolidation of corruption in Russia.Studying these aspects is integral to understanding where the problem of corruption originates and how it can be effectively countered.
According to the Transparency International's latest annual Corruption Perceptions Index, Russia ranked 141, tied with Uganda and Guinea.This is a decrease compared to previous years: in 2023 the country was in 137th place, and in 2022 -in 136th place.Despite the authorities' efforts to combat corruption, it remains significant, especially in the areas of public procurement, the judiciary and law enforcement agencies.This requires more transparent and effective measures to improve the situation and restore trust in the authorities (Meduza.io, 2024).

Purpose of the Study
The purpose of this study is to identify those factors that contribute to the spread of corruption in Russian society.This work aims to provide a basis for developing reasonable and effective strategies to combat this phenomenon.Analyzing these factors will not only help us better understand the complexity of the problem but will also provide a basis for future research and the development of strategies aimed at establishing fair, responsible and sustainable governance in Russia.

Significance of the Study
The study on the factors that contribute to the development of corruption in Russia is of outstanding significance in the context of the relevance and complexity of this problem.This work not only aims to gain a deeper understanding of corruption, but also provides important insights needed to develop strategies to counter this social phenomenon.Analysis of the factors of corruption plays a key role in developing effective measures and overcoming this problem, contributing to the creation of a more just, open, and sustainable society in Russia and in the global context.

Literature Review 2.1 Historical heritage of corruption in Russia. 2.1.1 Revolutions and the formation of Soviet power.
The roots of corruption go back to the distant past, when the first forms of power appeared before the formation of states.In those days, the leader of the community acquired absolute rights and seized the best resources.The interaction between power and subordinates formed relationships where the powerful could reward or punish, share wealth, or take from others.These relationships have become an integral part of human history and created the basis for the desire of some to receive maximum benefits from their power, while others, weaker ones, to please the stronger ones through gifts or bribes.This type of interaction was passed down from generation to generation, becoming part of the genetic heritage, which led to the formation of corruption as a social phenomenon.To fully understand corruption, research from different fields of science such as sociology, psychology and philosophy is necessary.
Corruption has always existed in parallel with the formation of the state and the legal system, being in the sphere of interpersonal relations, which seemed to be outside the scope of the state.These relationships were self-regulating and perhaps resembled market relationships.Market principles such as supply and demand, profit, and benefit, have always been the hidden drivers of corruption.Corruption, being a socio-economic manifestation, reflects not only the illegal actions of those in power, but also the special relationships that arise between them and other participants associated with the use of their powers.Position and power become a kind of "goods" that can be exchanged for money or services (Glazkova, 2015).
With the emergence of states and the increase in their functions, there was an increase in the number of officials, which gave them greater opportunities for personal enrichment through their positions.This process inevitably affected Russia, where, along with the development of the state, an apparatus of officials was formed.February Revolution of 1917: In 1917, events called the February Revolution took place in Russia.This happened during the First World War and in conditions of serious social inequalities.As a result of the February Revolution, the tsarist regime was overthrown.The economic and political crisis created the background for changes in the governance of the country.October Revolution of 1917: A few months after the February Revolution, in October 1917, the Bolsheviks came to power in Russia.This led to the establishment of a new form of government called the Soviet system, which put an end to almost 200 years of existence of the Russian Empire.Revolutions created an atmosphere of change and opened up opportunities for changing structures in society.
In both cases, both the February and October revolutions were determined by the difficulties of the First World War, as well as deep social differences.The February Revolution was the first step that led to the overthrow of the Tsarist government, while the October Revolution consolidated the power of the Bolsheviks and established a new form of government that would have a significant impact on the future of Russia.In the history of Russia, the most corrupt system was formed by V. Lenin and his party (Rauf, 2020).It is important to re-emphasize that corruption means the use of government power in the interests of the holders of power themselves, and not in the interests of the people.The most dangerous form of corruption occurs in the adoption of laws that serve solely the interests of those who hold power and make those laws.Under dictatorial rule, regulations are often adopted that favor the authorities who issued them.During the period of the communist dictatorship, the government also introduced laws aimed solely at strengthening its position, even to the detriment of the interests of society.During the formation of Soviet power, the Bolsheviks sought to create an ideal communist society.They developed the ideology of communism, where all people were supposed to be equal, and society was to be fair and free of corruption.The promise of a new, better society without privilege and inequality was an important part of the propaganda.
But as always with everything new, there is a supportive and non-supportive side.The civil war that broke out in Russia from 1918 to 1922 was a period of chaos and political instability.This conflict between the Red Army (supporting the Bolsheviks) and the White Army (opponents of the Bolsheviks) caused destruction and collapse of the institutions of power.In wartime conditions, when survival became a priority, conditions arose for the spread of corruption at all levels of government.The establishment of Soviet power laid the foundations for a system in which party hierarchy was often intertwined with corruption.Formation of "shadow" practices: The use of repression and tightening of political control contributed to the formation of "shadow" corruption practices.This historical legacy created a complex context in which power structures and corruption trends were shaped in the early Soviet period, leaving their mark in subsequent decades.

Period of Reform and Change in the Post-Soviet Era
The period of "Perestroika" ("restructuring") in the Soviet Union, which occurred in the late 1980s and early 1990s, was a time of great change in politics, economics, and culture.This restructuring, proposed by Gorbachev, was aimed at improving the country's system and transitioning to a more modern society.The main characteristics of this period included openness and political change, the introduction of elements of a market economy, the privatization of state-owned enterprises, greater freedom of speech and cultural expression, and improved relations with the international community (Adam, 2024).The impact of perestroika on corruption in Russia can be explained as follows: privatization processes were often accompanied by corruption, chaos in the economy created the conditions for various corruption schemes, freer discussion of problems contributed to the identification of cases of corruption, and improved relations with the international community could influence the fight against corruption in Russia.international level.Thus, perestroika had a lasting impact on Russia, and its historical legacy continues to influence contemporary issues, including corruption.
The collapse of the Soviet Union led to the emergence of new states, including Russia, and was accompanied by significant changes in the structure of power and governance.During this transition period, economic reforms were carried out, including the privatization of state property, aimed at the transition to a market economy.But these changes also created conditions for corruption in the distribution of wealth and influence (Lazarev, 2010).With the emergence of new elites associated with politics and business, corruption, and inequality in the distribution of power and resources emerged in the transition to a market economy.Changing political systems and power structures caused instability, which contributed to the flourishing of corruption, exploiting the weaknesses of the new institutions.Changes in the sociocultural context have also influenced public perceptions of corruption.Norms and values have become factors that shape favorable or unfavorable attitudes towards corruption.International structures influenced the formation of new institutions and the fight against corruption during this transition period.Understanding perestroika and transformation in the light of corruption helps to reveal the complex relationships between historical events, economic reforms and the development of corrupt practices.This period became the basis for the development of corruption in post-Soviet Russia, influencing modern realities.
Before the collapse of the Soviet Union, serious corruption was growing in the state apparatus.This was due to a strange combination of the command-and-control model and elements of a market economy, as well as the lack of effective control over the bureaucracy.Post-Soviet transformations can be explained by the influence of bureaucracy as a structural element of the political system and the strategic choice of dominant players who used it to their advantage.The mechanism for the reproduction of political corruption in the new states that emerged from the ruins of the Soviet empire was the "privatization" (in a broad sense) of the resources of the former nomenklatura.During this period, when the "privatization" of key government functions was carried out, the boundaries between the formal and informal spheres were blurred.The state became like a "stationary bandit" -in the terminology of M. Olson.This "stationary bandit" acts as a private monopolist, not interested in the development of production, but rather making a profit from the difference between price and cost (Volkov, 2005).Similarly, elite groups in post-Soviet regimes, while benefiting from the political process, prevented the formation of effective institutions that promote political competition.
Since the collapse of the USSR, the new states that have emerged in its place have undergone various changes in political development.Despite the diversity of situations, general trends in political processes can be identified in these Eurasian states (Gelman, 2007).In most CIS countries, politics does not involve competition between different political options and, rather, boils down to a struggle between elite groups for control of resources.This process can be represented as the transformation of the state into private property, and the basis for this is political corruption.As a result of political transformations, informal institutions dominate in these countries (Gelman, 2003).Due to the distortion of rules, privileged sectors such as the bureaucracy and organized interest groups have special access to political resources.This has led to the creation of corruption networks where key decisions are made.The deformation of political procedures and rules for decision-making occurred due to the authoritarian legacy of informal practices and the accumulation of social and economic problems (Merkel & Croissant, 2002).Thus, with each new stage in the history of Russia, the beginnings of corruption were laid in it, which became increasingly worse and had stronger consequences for its further future and its descendants.

Economic and structural factors of corruption
The lack of healthy competition and insufficient protection of property in the Russian economy are closely interrelated and play a key role in the spread of corruption.In the absence of competition, monopolies and oligopolies are formed, providing enterprises with the opportunity to enter transactions with officials.In return for bribes, they receive a monopoly position, benefits, or advantages in government contracts.This creates unfair conditions, undermines the integrity of the business environment, and promotes corruption.Insufficient property protection adds to this negative context.Weak legal institutions and a lack of ownership transparency mean that entrepreneurs may face arbitrary seizure of their property without fair compensation.This legal uncertainty forces entrepreneurs to resort to corrupt practices to protect their interests.
The shadow economy is an unauthorized economic activity aimed at avoiding taxes and official restrictions.It becomes a factor contributing to corruption, as its participants often use bribes and corruption schemes to circumvent laws and obtain privileges.Such practices can undermine the rule of law, undermine economic justice, and result in lost tax revenue for the government.With the advent of the state, a shadow economy arises, which is represented by illegal or criminal figures who do not recognize the rules of the "social contract."The growth of this activity is associated with the transition from pre-industrial to industrial society in a new era.This is usually a reaction to the emergence of wealth that does not yet have established institutional foundations (Nushtaev, 2011).During the period of market reforms in Russia, the shadow economy became an important sector.The reasons for its development include economic destruction, non-payments, deficits, theft, budget deficit, collapse of the financial system, hyperinflation, "free" privatization, liberalization of foreign economic activity.Negative changes in the law enforcement system, criminalization of the economy, corruption in legislative bodies, and the formation of legal nihilism also influenced the shadow economy.Socio-political factors include a lack of ideology, stratification of society, a permissive worldview, double moral standards, power struggles for personal gain, negative attitudes toward the state, and excessive government intervention in the economy (Beliaeva & Senchagov, 1998).The shadow economy has several key characteristics, but its main characteristic is its universality.It is present in any state, regardless of its level of development and socio-economic structure.The size and prevalence of the shadow economy can vary.The main reason for its appearance is the discrepancy between objective economic laws and their reflection in the legal norms and legislation of the state (Golovanov et. al., 2003).Thus, complete elimination of the shadow economy is impossible.To effectively combat this phenomenon, the state should focus its efforts on controlling the most dangerous forms of the shadow economy through public mechanisms and government bodies.These forms hinder progressive development and have a destructive impact on society as a whole and especially on individual citizens.
There are three main groups of reasons explaining corruption in modern economics:

Economic reasons:
Low wages for civil servants.
Great opportunities for government officials to influence the activities of firms and citizens.

Institutional reasons:
High level of secrecy in the work of government departments.Large reporting system.Lack of transparency in the lawmaking system.Weak personnel policy of the state.

Socio-cultural reasons:
Demoralization of society.Lack of awareness and organization of citizens.Public passivity in relation to the arbitrariness of government power.
It is important to note that where all three groups of reasons exist, the level of corruption is usually the highest.Corruption has a negative impact on the economic and social development of a country.Social consequences include injustice, manifested in unfair competition among firms and unreasonable distribution of income among citizens.Increasing the income of bribe givers and bribe takers by reducing the income of law-abiding citizens creates additional social imbalances.The most dangerous corruption is in the tax collection system, allowing the rich to evade them and shifting the tax burden onto the shoulders of poorer citizens.
(Figure 1.The influence of corruption and the shadow economy on the economic security of the country) The shadow economy breeds corruption, and corruption, in turn, creates the basis for the flourishing of the shadow economy.
Cause and effect, end and means in this context are so interconnected and intertwined that they form a vicious cycle.Firstly, the shadow economy can flourish only if all systems of government and governance are corrupt.Secondly, the shadow economy contributes to the formation of corruption ties in various spheres of politics and economics on which its existence depends.Thirdly, corruption forces the shadow economy to remain in the shadows and engage in illegal business.Fourthly, corruption creates the basis for the emergence of new areas and forms of the shadow economy.Fifthly, the shadow economy is the financial basis of corruption, while corruption is the financial basis of the shadow economy.Thus, the lack of competition and insufficient protection of property together create favorable conditions for corruption and the flourishing of the shadow economy in Russia.Solving these problems requires comprehensive changes in legislation, strengthening legal institutions and developing competition in various areas.In addition, it is necessary to combat shadow practices that escape official control.

Liability of officials
Corruption is an illegal act committed by authorized persons to obtain illegal income, which violates the interests of the public good in favor of narrow group interests.This definition covers both civil servants and participants in business corruption (Sulakshin, et. al., 2013).Most often, corruption is associated with bribery and illegal proceedings, when government officials receive bribes from citizens for the purpose of personal enrichment.However, it should be noted that not only government officials, but also company managers can be participants in corruption relations.Bribes can be accepted in other forms, and the initiators of corrupt relationships are not always government officials, but sometimes entrepreneurs.
Corruption poses a serious threat to the very existence of the state and is a major obstacle to improving the quality of life, economic development, the formation of civil society and the fight against organized crime.The growth of corruption in Russia is becoming the main barrier to attracting foreign investment and introducing modern technologies into domestic industry.The impact of corruption negatively affects the international image and investment rating of the country.One of the factors leading to corruption is also the lack of accountability of officials, which contributes to impunity and further fuels the spread of corrupt practices.The responsibility of officials plays an important role in shaping the level of corruption in Russia.The lack of effective punishment mechanisms and insufficient accountability create favorable conditions for the spread of corruption in various spheres of government.There are several reasons for the formation of corruption among officials, but the main ones are the following: 1. Immunity and Punishment: The ability of officials to avoid responsibility for corrupt acts or to receive undeserved immunity reduces their fear of possible punishment.This could lead to rampant corruption in government agencies.2. Ineffective punishment system: The lack of strict and consistent penalties for corruption weakens discipline in the government apparatus.The belief that the likelihood of punishment is low and can encourage the spread of corrupt practices.3. Ease of avoidance: Some officials may use their position to avoid punishment, for example by interfering in legal proceedings or putting pressure on law enforcement agencies.4. Lack of control system: Insufficient mechanisms for control over the activities of public servants contribute to corruption.
In the absence of an effective monitoring system, it is difficult to detect and prevent corruption.
Addressing the problem of corruption in Russia requires tightening the accountability of officials, creating transparent control and punishment mechanisms, and ensuring the independence of the judicial system to effectively investigate and prosecute cases of corruption.

Political aspects of corruption
Corruption directly contributes to the criminalization of society.By merging with corrupt groups of officials and entrepreneurs, organized crime is increasingly strengthening, which not only expands the possibilities of money laundering, but also gains access to political power (Zvyagin, 2007).All this undermines citizens' trust in government power, destroys the legitimacy of state institutions, prevents the transformations necessary for Russia, increases social tension, and strengthens the threat of terrorism contributes to the decline of the country's prestige in the world community.According to authoritative analytical services, the main factor causing political crises in the country and preventing internal modernization and approaching European standards is political corruption.It was revealed that the most vulnerable to corruption were the bodies designed to combat it -the judicial system and law enforcement agencies (Kokhan, 2013).The role of political elites plays a decisive role in the formation and spread of corruption in society.In Russia, as in many other countries, influential political circles can represent one of the key sources of corruption.
Experts highlight several aspects that explain how political elites can contribute to corruption: 1. Control of resources: Political elites who control important resources can use their position for personal gain, for example through the distribution of government contracts and the provision of benefits.
2. Lack of Transparency: Some political elites may engage in corruption schemes, delaying reforms aimed at increasing transparency and fighting corruption.
3. Lack of effective control: Insufficient control and balancing of political structures contributes to the strengthening of corruption.The lack of independent checks and balances in political institutions creates the conditions for abuse of power.
4. Reward System: If power comes with high incomes and privileges, political elites may seek personal gain by using their influence to secure a privileged position in society (Nomokonov, 2020).
Addressing the problem of corruption associated with political elites requires transparency reforms, independent oversight, and strengthening legal institutions to effectively combat corruption at the political level.Among measures to combat political corruption, a key step is to increase the professionalism of officials.Experience confirms that the level of professionalism directly affects integrity, which, in turn, determines the level of political culture and the level of corruption.Strengthening the professional competencies of civil servants not only increases the efficiency of their work, but also contributes to the formation of a more responsible and moral approach to the performance of their duties in the field of public administration.Such measures can help improve public trust in government and reduce the likelihood of corruption in politics (Sarychev&Arkhiptsev, 2022).

The lack of separation of power
The Constitution of the Russian Federation enshrines the principle of separation of powers, which is considered one of the key elements of the democratic structure of the state.However, to date, constitutional law theory recognizes that this principle has not been fully realized and there is a marked imbalance in the system of checks and balances.The structure of state power established by the Constitution has led to negative consequences, such as an uneven distribution of powers between its components, corruption in the political sphere, monopolization of political space and the lack of an effective mechanism for protecting the rights and freedoms of citizens.
The Russian system of power sharing is faced with the problem of "unbalanced concentration of power" in the hands of the President (Krasnov&Shablinsky, 2008).Parliament, intended to reflect the interests of the people, is limited in its role, and performs a formal function.This is since the legislative branch is not able to really resist the actions of the President and have a real influence on his policies.This situation makes parliament vulnerable and unable to compete, and allows the President to control the Government, making it dependent on his influence.
The lack of a clear separation of powers in Russia contributes to corruption.The lack of balance between the executive, legislative and judicial powers create an environment ripe for abuse.For example, the dominance of the executive over the legislature or influence on judicial processes can lead to decisions being made in the interests of certain groups or individuals rather than in favor of society.The lack of independence of the judiciary and limited public oversight leave the government without proper oversight, which increases the risk of corruption.Unclear legal frameworks and the absence of effective public control mechanisms facilitate hidden corrupt practices.To combat corruption, it is important to strengthen the principles of separation of powers, create independent control institutions and ensure transparency in the decision-making system.This can contribute to the formation of an effective legal environment where corruption will be more difficult to hide and more susceptible to punishment.
In Russia, there is an imitation of political competition, which reduces the competitiveness of parliament and leaves the bureaucracy as the only way to implement public policy.The absence of strong political actors creates a stable environment for the long-term stay of officials who become the backbone of the state.Business representatives, deprived of the opportunity to protect their interests through political parties, are forced to seek support from the administration.This leads not only to elements of corruption, but also to double standards of legal norms (Pechenkin & Vasilyeva, 2013).The principle of separation of powers, which underlies the structure of the state, is a key mechanism for achieving balance and control between the executive, legislative and judicial powers.This principle has several important consequences that contribute to the stability and efficiency of government institutions.
First, the separation of powers serves as a barrier to possible abuses and accumulation of power in the hands of one branch of government.This reduces the risk of authoritarianism and ensures balance between different spheres of power.Secondly, the interaction of independent branches of government creates a system of internal control, preventing violations of the law and guaranteeing respect for the rights and freedoms of citizens.This aspect is important for maintaining public trust in government agencies.The third important implication is to ensure transparency in decision making.The principle of separation of powers promotes public access to information about the activities of the state, which supports the openness and participation of citizens in public life.In addition, the independence of the judiciary, as provided for by the separation of powers, plays a key role in ensuring fair decisions based on the law.This increases confidence in the legal system and contributes to the efficient functioning of the courts (Kleiner, 2015).As a result, the principle of separation of powers represents a fundamental mechanism for achieving stability and balance of the state system, ensuring the protection of citizens' rights and effective governance of the country.

Cultural norm of corruption
Corruption culture is a set of values and rules that regulate corruption as a type of criminal behavior.It is formed because of the historical development of corrupt practices in society and determines the emergence and transmission of typical forms of this activity within the framework of current legislation.Corruption culture reflects social norms and perceptions of corruption in a certain period of time (Kamensky, 2014).Corruption networks are organized around various systems of role expectations, such as family, friendship, ethnicity, clan, religion and corporate.They have varied purposes and include different types of activities.These networks emphasize the principles of mutual assistance and solidarity, while forming their own systems of rules.Compliance with these rules is given paramount importance both in relation to the norms of the state and family, and in relation to the interests of each participant in the corruption network.
In the context of corruption in Russia, culture has a significant impact, shaping the characteristics of interaction in society and government structures.One key aspect is traditional paternalism, where citizens expect the government to take care of their needs.This creates the basis for mutual assistance and, in some cases, a transition to corruption based on personal connections.Informal networks and the influence of personal ties also play an important role in Russian culture.These connections can facilitate corrupt transactions, where trust and relationships become key elements.The tradition in Russian culture of linking the achievement of well-being as a priority, even via unethical means, creates a legitimate environment for corruption in the eyes of society if it is seen to achieve the goal.Low trust in formal institutions encourages the creation of parallel, informal systems where corruption can flourish due to a lack of control.Soviet legacies such as collectivism and limited access to resources also influenced corrupt practices, especially as people seek to secure privileges for themselves and their loved ones (Nestik, 2002).

The role of media
Researchers argue that the role of mass media in Russia today has become complex.On the one hand, they play a key role in the implementation of the ideas of democracy.On the other hand, for the principle of openness to work successfully, it requires a developed civil society, coordinated economic reforms and effective government institutions that can resist negative phenomena such as corruption.In the regions there is often an unfavorable situation in the functioning of the media.Financial uncertainty, commercialization and vested interests threaten public interests.Regional authorities often see the media as a means of influencing events in the region.However, in fulfilling its mission, the media creates a problem by not directly addressing the interests and ideas of the population, viewing itself rather as the voice of civil society.Attention should also be paid to the constant pressure that the media are subjected to from various parties, such as power, audiences, owners, pressure groups and other factors (Tvirova, 2008).
The role of the media in the context of corruption in Russia has a significant impact on public opinion and the fight against corruption.Control over the media space and censorship of negative materials can help hide corrupt practices.Manipulation of information by owners of media resources associated with corruption can distort the picture of events.Lack of media independence can make corruption investigations difficult.Restrictions in access to information create barriers to the publication of facts of corruption, and propaganda and ideological influence can create a tolerant attitude towards corruption (Zhuravlev & Yurevich, 2012).The fight against corruption requires ensuring the independence and freedom of the media, creating transparency mechanisms, and supporting journalists investigating corruption.

The role of globalization
Economic globalization may open additional opportunities for corrupt practices when integrating into the global economy (Satarov, 2004).International business relationships may face differences in culture and practices, creating situations where corruption is considered the norm.The ease of movement of capital across borders can make financial transactions more difficult to monitor and facilitate money laundering.Interactions with international organizations may be influenced by corruption to achieve the desired results.Difficulties in international law enforcement and the limited effectiveness of international mechanisms may create insufficient punishment for acts of corruption (Naumov, 2010).

Seriousness of corruption
Corruption in Russia remains one of the most serious problems facing both government agencies and ordinary citizens, especially in the last 5-10 years.This problem is systemic in nature and penetrates various levels of government, from local administrations to federal structures.Despite the government's attempts to combat corruption by creating anti-corruption bodies and introducing new laws, the effectiveness of these measures remains insufficient.In 2020, amendments were made to the criminal code aimed at increasing penalties for corruption crimes, but corruption incidents continue to occur (Kilin et. al., 2020).Recent years have seen a number of landmark corruption scandals, caused public outrage and highlighted the need for more effective action to combat this phenomenon.Corruption and corrupt connections are closely related, as corruption is often part of organized criminal activity.
One official cannot usually be considered corrupt if he acts alone, outside the group.It is widely accepted that corrupt connections can be a sign of an organized crime group.
However, it is important to note that not every corrupt relationship is a crime.Russian legislation does not provide for liability for the simple acquaintance of an official with a member of a criminal group.Therefore, it is necessary not only to identify signs of corruption and corrupt connections, but also to prove that these connections led to specific criminal acts, for example, receiving a bribe.Unfortunately, the criminal legislation of the Russian Federation does not contain the terms "corruption", "corrupt connections", "corruption crime", which distinguishes us from other countries.The main difficulty in the fight against corruption is that proving the commission of such a crime under current criminal law is an extremely difficult task.Even if a person can be proven guilty of a corruption crime, liability for his actions is often limited to small penalties, mainly fines, which do not correspond to the income he received from illegal activities (Karagodin, 2003).Countries completely free from corruption do not exist.Those of them where corruption is kept under control, as a rule, coped with this problem, while simultaneously solving other long-term tasks, such as creating an open economy, building a sustainable democratic society.Thus, strengthening efforts to combat corruption requires not only legislative measures, but also broad public support and changes in culture and attitudes towards this problem.

Purpose of present study
This research endeavors to pinpoint the underlying factors fueling the proliferation of corruption within Russian society.Its primary objective is to furnish a foundation for formulating pragmatic and efficacious strategies to counteract this pervasive phenomenon.By scrutinizing these factors, we aim not only to enhance our comprehension of the intricacies surrounding the issue but also to lay the groundwork for subsequent investigations and the formulation of policies geared towards fostering equitable, accountable, and enduring governance in Russia.This study seeks to delve into the multifaceted dynamics of corruption, offering insights that can inform the development of comprehensive and sustainable approaches to governance reform in the country.

Research questions.
1. How does the history of Russia, including the period of the Soviet Union and times of change, influence the organization of government and why can this create conditions for corruption? 2. What specific economic factors, such as lack of fair competition, problems in the labor market and lack of property protection, contribute to the development of corruption schemes in Russian government agencies?3. How do political aspects, such as the lack of a clear division of power and the presence of corrupt political elites, influence the level of corruption in decision-making processes in Russian public administration?

Research method.
To justify the methodology of this study, 30 different sources were used, including books, academic papers, articles, journals, and other publications on the topic of "Factors Leading to Corruption in Russia."For example, books such as "Crisis and Corruption: Relationship and Prospects.Social sciences and modernity" by Kleiner (2015) and "History of Corruption in Russia" by Rauf (2020) describe the historical roots of corruption and its impact on Russia's future.Academic works, such as "The Phenomenon of Political Corruption: Theoretical and Methodological Analysis" by Kokhan (2013) and "Methods and Means of Combating Corruption: Criminal Justice: State and Development Paths" by Karagodin (2003) these types of academic publications not only provide information on the topic, but also provide the opinion and analysis of the author for the academic work.Articles, such as "Globalization: Corruption and Crisis.Bulletin of Economic Security" by Naumov (2010) and "Social and Political Aspects of Corruption: Problems of law enforcement" by Sarychev & Arkhiptsev (2022), offer opinions and analysis from authors regarding the topic of corruption.Publications from newspapers and journals, such as the article "Russia Ranked 141st in Transparency International's Corruption Perceptions Index.On Par with Uganda and Guinea" from meduza.io and the journal "Perestroika" by Adam (2024), also contribute to the study of corruption issues in Russia.These sources were obtained from various databases, such as Google Scholar, Cyberleninka.ru,and other internet resources, enabling a comprehensive analysis of the researched topic.

Data collection 4.1.1 Data collection from books and academic papers
In the process of writing a work on the topic "Factors leading to corruption in Russia," we actively used data from various books and scientific works.First, we conducted an extensive literature search, focusing on scientific research in the fields of political science, sociology, economics, and law related to the problem of corruption.
To collect data from books, we used both classic textbooks and monographs, as well as the latest research and analytical reports.While reading the books, we focused on various theoretical approaches to understanding corruption, as well as empirical data and studies describing the factors influencing the spread of corruption in Russian society.The data collection process was carried out systematically and required a specific methodology.
First, we compiled a list of keywords and terms related to corruption in Russia.This helped us navigate the search for the necessary literature and scientific papers.We then used digital libraries and research databases such as Google Scholar and Cyberleninka to find relevant and authoritative research on the topic by both domestic and foreign researchers.In parallel, we turned to library catalogs to search for books and monographs on corruption in Russia.
Searching for data in books and scientific papers plays an important role in the study of corruption in Russia for several reasons.First, books and research papers provide extensive analysis and overview of current information on the topic.They cover various aspects of the problem of corruption, ranging from historical context to current trends.This helps the researcher to gain a complete understanding of the subject of the study.Secondly, data from books and scientific papers have gone through a publication and peer review process to ensure their quality and reliability.This allows the researcher to use verified and authoritative sources of information, which increases the credibility of the research results.In addition, books and academic papers often contain extensive literature reviews and links to other studies and data sources.This helps the researcher discover additional resources and gain a deeper understanding of the topic, as well as analyze existing viewpoints and scientific approaches.
Finally, the use of data from books and scientific papers enhances the scientific validity and argumentation of the study.Links to authoritative sources help to convincingly present research results and increase their credibility in the eyes of readers and audiences.

Data collection from articles and journals
As for articles and journals, we analyzed a wide range of publications in scientific journals, both Russian and foreign.These articles provided us with access to current research conducted on corruption in Russia and helped me identify different views and conclusions of scholars.
The approach to data collection from journals and articles was systematic and methodologically sound.we have sought to use both classic research and the latest publications to ensure a complete and objective analysis of the factors leading to corruption in Russian society.

Data analysis
In academic work, data analysis is the process of studying and interpreting the information collected and presented in the work.Within its framework, various aspects, ideas, or numerical indicators are analyzed and evaluated to understand their impact on the problem or phenomenon being studied.During the analysis, the data is structured, statistical indicators are calculated, a qualitative review of textual material is carried out, and conclusions are drawn based on the results obtained.This helps the researcher to identify major trends, identify relationships and formulate conclusions necessary for a deeper understanding of the issues being studied.In the Data Analysis section of my work on the factors contributing to corruption in Russia, we carefully processed and interpreted all the information collected.Here is how we describe this step: 1. Data Structuring: At the beginning, we organized all the data collected from various sources -books, scientific articles, and other materials.We created a database where we organized information about the key factors of corruption, providing easy access to it.
2. Content Analysis: we then analyzed the content of all collected materials, highlighting the main themes, factors and approaches reflected in the literature on corruption in Russia.This included studying the causes of corruption, its forms, and strategies to combat it.

Statistical Analysis:
For data subject to statistical analysis, such as statistics and surveys, we calculated key indicators such as means and correlations to determine relationships between variables and factors of corruption.
4. Qualitative Analysis: In addition to the statistical analysis, we also analyzed the textual materials.We studied key ideas and arguments in scientific papers to gain a deeper understanding of the problem of corruption in Russia.
5. Interpretation of the results: After analyzing the data, we interpreted them, identifying the main patterns and conclusions that can help understand the nature of corruption in Russia and develop effective strategies to combat it.
6. Formulation of conclusions: Based on the analysis, we made conclusions and formulated recommendations, which became the basis for the final part of our work.These findings represent the essence of my study and will be useful for future research in this area.

Findings
From the results of a comprehensive analysis and research on the factors leading to corruption in Russia, several key findings emerge, covering various spheres of public life.

Influence of Historical and Economic Factors: Consideration of the Soviet era and periods of transformation allows us to
understand what structural changes and social trends contributed to the formation of corrupt practices in public administration.
Globalization and the International Nature of Corruption: One of the key factors contributing to the spread of corruption in Russia is globalization.This process determines economic transparency and the free movement of capital and resources, which increases the likelihood of corruption schemes, especially in the field of international business relations and trade.

Economic Factors and Lack of Competition:
Lack of competition in the labor market, ineffective market mechanisms and weakened property protection also play a significant role in creating the conditions for corruption in the Russian economy.These factors create an environment in which malpractice becomes more likely.

Sociocultural Aspects and Society Mentality:
The educational system and cultural norms also influence the spread of corruption in Russia.Insufficient attention to ethics in education and the normalization of corrupt practices in culture contribute to the persistence of corruption and undermine trust in legal institutions.
Problems in Public Administration: Imperfect control systems, insufficient transparency and responsibility in public administration pose a threat to the effective fight against corruption.The lack of separation of powers and the presence of corrupt political elites increases the likelihood of corruption at the decision-making level.
These findings indicate the complexity and multifaceted nature of the problem of corruption in Russian society.Understanding and analyzing these factors is essential to developing effective strategies to combat corruption and create fairer and more sustainable societies.

How the Research Findings Answer Research Questions 4.4.1 How does the history of Russia, including the period of the Soviet Union and times of change, influence the organization of government and why can this create conditions for corruption?
Historical periods in Russia, including the era of the Soviet Union and times of change, play a significant role in the structure of power and the creation of preconditions for corruption for several reasons.Firstly, during the Soviet Union, specific power structures were formed, often centralized, and lacking proper transparency.This provided an environment conducive to corruption, as the lack of control and accountability among government authorities encouraged abuses.
Secondly, the period of change associated with the collapse of the Soviet Union and the transition to a market economy also contributed to the emergence of corrupt practices.This period was characterized by economic and social difficulties, as well as legal uncertainty, which increased the spread of various forms of corruption.In addition, prevailing cultural norms and mentality also influence the spread of corruption.If power is seen as a means of personal gain, rather than as a tool for serving society, then this contributes to the establishment of corrupt practices.Thus, the historical characteristics of Russia, including the periods of the Soviet Union and change, shape the organization of power and create conditions that can promote corruption.

What specific economic factors, such as lack of fair competition, problems in the labor market and lack of property protection, contribute to the development of corruption schemes in Russian government agencies?
In Russian government structures, certain economic conditions contribute to the spread of corruption schemes.Lack of fair competition, problems in the labor market and insufficient property protection are key factors that contribute to this phenomenon.
First, the lack of fair competition in the economy creates a favorable environment for corruption in government agencies.Monopoly practices and bias against certain companies can encourage corrupt practices, such as bribery in awarding contracts.
Secondly, problems in the labor market, such as high unemployment and ineffective employment mechanisms, can contribute to the formation of corruption schemes.For example, when there is a shortage of jobs, officials may demand bribes to provide jobs or improve employment conditions.
Finally, insufficient protection of property and property rights also creates vulnerability to corrupt practices.When property rights are not sufficiently protected by law, officials may use this to extort bribes to secure property protection or to illegally restrict it.These factors jointly contribute to the formation and spread of corruption schemes in Russian government bodies.

How do political aspects, such as the lack of a clear division of power and the presence of corrupt political elites, influence the level of corruption in decision-making processes in Russian public administration?
Both the lack of a clear separation of powers and the presence of corrupt political elites has a significant impact on the level of corruption in Russian public administration, especially in decision-making processes.The lack of a clear separation of powers creates a favorable environment for corrupt practices.When power is not sufficiently divided among the various branches of government, the potential for abuse arises because there is no effective mechanism to monitor the actions of the executive branch.The presence of corrupt political elites encourages corruption in decision-making processes.When political leaders or figures are susceptible to corrupt practices, they may use their political resources for personal gain by interfering in decision-making processes and allocating government resources to their advantage.
Thus, political aspects such as the lack of a clear separation of powers and the presence of corrupt political elites are significant factors contributing to the level of corruption in Russian public administration, especially in the context of decision-making processes.

Discussion
This study identified various factors contributing to the development of corruption in Russia.Let us discuss the results obtained and their impact on modern society.
Historical features, including the periods of the Soviet Union and times of change, play a significant role in shaping the structure of power and creating the preconditions for corruption.The lack of transparency and control in government bodies during the Soviet Union, as well as the economic and social difficulties of the transition to a market economy, contributed to the formation of corruption schemes.
Economic factors such as lack of competition, problems in the labor market and insufficient property protection also have a significant impact on the spread of corruption in government bodies.These factors create favorable conditions for abuse and bribery.
Political aspects, including the lack of a clear separation of powers and the presence of corrupt political elites, also play a key role in the level of corruption in Russian public administration.These factors create an environment in which decision-making can be subject to vested interests and corrupt practices.
Discussion of these factors highlights the complexity of the problem of corruption in Russia and the need for an integrated approach to solving it.Given their impact on various aspects of public life, it is important to develop appropriate anti-corruption strategies, including improving legislation, increasing transparency and accountability of government agencies, and establishing effective control and oversight mechanisms.

Policy Implications 6.1 Introduction
The section allows us to better understand the impact of corruption on political processes and institutions in the country.In the Russian context, corruption has serious impacts on political institutions and decision-making processes.This leads to weakening citizens' trust in government agencies, reducing transparency in decision-making, and distorting democratic processes.Corruption in Russia often leads to a decrease in citizens' trust in political leaders, parties, and government institutions.This creates public discontent and can undermine the legitimacy of the political system (Pasechko, 2017).Interference by corrupt political elites in electoral processes, restrictions on freedom of speech and human rights violations have a negative impact on democratic institutions and processes in Russia.Analysis of the mechanisms of formation and functioning of corrupt political elites helps to understand which groups and power structures are most susceptible to corruption and how their influence affects political processes.Corruption influences the formation of economic policy, creating obstacles to the development of a competitive environment, effective budget planning and tax system, which negatively affects the economic development of the country.A study of the reaction of society and the international community to corruption in Russia allows us to assess the effectiveness of measures taken to combat this phenomenon and identify potential areas for improving the situation.

Implementation of transparency and accountability mechanisms
Implementing mandatory public declaration of income and assets for government officials at all levels is a critical component in the fight against corruption.This measure assumes that every civil servant is obliged to provide complete and reliable information about his income, real estate, financial assets, and other property liabilities (Trofimov & Garcia, 2020).Declarations must be available for public viewing to ensure transparency and public oversight.The creation of independent anti-corruption bodies with broad powers is a necessary step to effectively investigate and bring to justice those involved in corruption schemes.These bodies must have autonomy, integrity, and sufficient resources to conduct investigations without interference from other branches of government (Dolotov & Krylova, 2019).In addition, they must have the power to take measures to punish those responsible and prevent future corruption crimes.The implementation of these measures will help not only increase the transparency of the activities of government bodies, but also create effective mechanisms for preventing and suppressing corruption in Russian society.

Strengthening control and supervision mechanisms.
Strengthening the role of parliament in monitoring the executive branch involves expanding its powers and actively intervening in the processes of adoption of anti-corruption legislation (Klimovitsky & Karepova, 2017).This could include parliamentary involvement in the development of laws relating to transparency, accountability, and anti-corruption, as well as stronger oversight and evaluation of the executive's anti-corruption efforts.The introduction of mandatory internal audit and control mechanisms in government agencies and enterprises involves the creation of an internal control and audit system that would ensure constant monitoring and assessment of the use of public resources, as well as the identification and prevention of corruption (Turishcheva, 2020).This may include the introduction of mechanisms for auditing financial transactions, monitoring procurement and use of budget funds, as well as measures to encourage reporting and accountability in government agencies.These steps will improve the efficiency of control over the use of public resources, strengthen public administration institutions and reduce the likelihood of corruption schemes, thereby improving the quality of public administration and increasing public confidence in public institutions.

Education and awareness campaign
Conducting a large-scale educational campaign about the harm of corruption and its consequences for society is an important step in the fight against this phenomenon.This campaign should cover various aspects of corruption, including its negative impact on economic development, social justice, law, and order.The campaign should reveal specific examples of corruption schemes and their impact on the daily lives of citizens (Kornilova, 2014).An important element of the educational campaign should be the introduction of ethics and business integrity education into school and university curricula.This will allow students to develop an understanding of basic ethical principles and skills in making ethically correct decisions.Training should include learning about professional responsibility, trust, transparency, and respect for the law.Raising awareness and instilling zero tolerance towards corruption among the younger generation plays a key role in shaping the future of society (Idiyatova, 2014).This can be done through the inclusion of anti-corruption topics in curricula, organizing extracurricular activities, creating special educational materials, and conducting information campaigns in schools and universities.These measures will help influence the mentality and value orientations of young people, helping to create a culture of non-acceptance of corruption and encouraging honesty, responsibility, and law-abidingness.

Theoretical Implications 7.1 Defining a theory.
A theory is a systematic set of ideas that explains observed facts or phenomena in the world.It is a logical construct based on certain assumptions or principles that allow predictions to be made about the behavior of a system or phenomenon under various conditions.Theory serves as the basis for scientific research and understanding of the world in various fields of knowledge (Filatov et. al., 2005).
Theory strives to generalize facts and phenomena, identifying their general patterns and principles.It describes not only specific cases, but also tries to present a wide range of phenomena in a single system of concepts.The explanatory power of a theory lies in its ability to provide explanations for observed phenomena.It should justify cause-and-effect relationships between various variables or factors and help understand why certain events occur.The predictive power of a theory is that it must be able to predict the results of new observations or experiments based on already known data.This allows the theory to be used to predict future events and developments of situations.Testability of a theory means that it must be testable through observation, experiment, or other research methods.It must be formulated in such a way that it can be verified against real data.(Shvyrev, 1978).The credibility and persuasiveness of a theory is ensured by its foundation on reliable and convincing data, research, and logical arguments.Its conclusions must be convincing and recognized by the scientific community.Thus, a theory is a system of abstract concepts and ideas that explain certain phenomena in the world and allow predictions and decisions to be made based on scientific knowledge (Stepin, 2000).

Reviewed theories 7.2.1 Historical theory of corruption
Historical corruption theory analyzes the role and influence of historical context on modern corruption practices.In the case of Russia, this includes consideration of the effects of revolutions and the formation of Soviet power on the development of corruption.Revolutions, including the October Revolution of 1917, and other political changes in the country, accompanied by a transition to new forms of government, could have a significant impact on the formation of corrupt practices.This may be due to the loss of old institutions and norms, as well as the emergence of new opportunities for abuse of power.The of Soviet power and the establishment of the communist regime also had a unique impact on the development of corruption (Litvyak et. al., 2015).Control over economic and political resources, a centralized management system and a lack of transparency in decisionmaking could contribute to the formation and consolidation of corrupt practices at various levels of government and society.Thus, the historical legacy, including revolutions and the formation of Soviet power, has a significant impact on modern corruption practices in Russia.

Economic theory of corruption
The economic theory of corruption focuses on the analysis of economic and structural factors that influence the spread of corruption in Russia.One of the key aspects of this theory is the consideration of the responsibility of officials.The responsibility of officials is an important factor that determines the effectiveness of the fight against corruption.In Russia, insufficient accountability for abuse of power may create favorable conditions for the spread of corruption.Insufficient punishment for corrupt acts or the absence of clear control and oversight mechanisms allow corruption schemes to flourish.Moreover, economic factors such as low public sector wages or unequal distribution of wealth may motivate officials to abuse their power in exchange for bribes or personal gain (Shediy, 2011).So, the economic theory of corruption emphasizes the importance of analyzing economic factors and mechanisms of official responsibility for understanding the spread of corruption in Russia.

Political theory of corruption
The political theory of corruption analyzes the political aspects that influence the spread of corruption in a country.One of the key factors considered in this theory is the lack of separation of powers.The lack of separation of powers in Russia can facilitate corruption by concentrating power in the hands of a small group of individuals or institutions, which creates conditions for abuse and influence on decision-making.Insufficient control over power or non-transparent decision-making mechanisms can create opportunities for corruption schemes (Zhigun, 2015).Moreover, political structures and processes that are not subject to adequate control or transparency can become victims of corruption when political elites use their influence for personal gain or to ensure the maintenance of their power.
Thereby, the political theory of corruption emphasizes the importance of analyzing political institutions, processes, and relationships for understanding the nature of corruption in Russia and developing effective strategies to overcome it.

Cultural theory of corruption
The cultural theory of corruption focuses on the analysis of cultural norms and values that determine society's attitude towards corruption.In the Russian context, this theory examines the influence of cultural factors on people's behavior and their perceptions of corruption.
One of the key aspects of cultural theory is the study of the cultural norm of corruption, which determines how widespread and socially acceptable corruption is in each society.In the Russian context, the cultural norm of corruption can have a significant impact on the formation of behavioral stereotypes and habits, as well as on the perception of corruption as normal or inevitable.This theory also draws attention to the role of social institutions such as family, education, and the media in shaping the cultural norm of corruption (Maksimenko et. al., 2020).For example, if corruption is perceived as common or even necessary behavior, this may help it spread and become stronger in society.Research within the framework of the cultural theory of corruption helps to understand what cultural factors can contribute to or, conversely, hinder the fight against corruption.This makes it possible to develop strategies aimed at changing the cultural norm of corruption and the formation of new values that help counteract this phenomenon in Russian society.

Theory of the role of the media in corruption
The theory of the role of the media in corruption is the study of the influence of the media on the formation of public opinion about corruption and their role in combating this phenomenon.Within the Russian context, this theory analyzes the influence of the media on the spread of corrupt practices and their participation in countering this phenomenon.One of the main aspects of the theory is to consider what sources of information and what messages are conveyed to the public through the media regarding corruption.The media can influence public perceptions of corruption by presenting it as a systemic flaw or as isolated cases.They can also focus public attention on specific corruption scandals or problems, which can influence public opinion and the actions of government agencies.
Another aspect of the theory is the consideration of the role of the media in the fight against corruption.The media can act as public oversight bodies by exposing facts of corruption, conducting investigations, and criticizing corrupt officials and organizations (Golubovsky & Sinyukova, 2020).They can also act as catalysts for changes in legislation and public consciousness regarding corruption.Research within the framework of this theory makes it possible to understand how the behavior and activities of the media can influence the dynamics of corruption in Russia, and to identify effective strategies for using the media to combat this phenomenon.

New developed theories
When studying the factors influencing corruption in Russia, several theories can be derived based on the formula Y = F (X1, X2, ...Xn), where Y represents the dependent variable and Xn are the independent variables.

Theory of historical influences on corruption
The theory of historical influences on corruption examines how past historical events and changes have shaped the current corruption environment in Russia.According to this theory, the level of corruption (Y) depends on two main factors: 1. Influence of the Soviet era and periods of change (X1): This means that historical events, such as the establishment of Soviet power and subsequent reforms, greatly influenced the development of corruption trends in modern Russia.2. Governance structures and public mentality (X2): This factor covers the organization of government and the general values of society.Historically ineffective and non-transparent governance structures, as well as the cultural characteristics of a society, can contribute to the spread of corruption.
(Figure 2. Theory of historical influence on corruption) This theory emphasizes the importance of considering historical context when analyzing corruption in Russia and the need for systemic changes in governance and public values to combat corruption.

Theory of political influence on corruption
The theory of political influence on corruption indicates the relationship between political factors and the level of corruption in society.According to this theory, the level of corruption (Y) depends on two main political factors: 1. Lack of separation of powers (X1): This factor refers to a situation where the legislative, executive, and judicial powers are not sufficiently separated from each other.The lack of a clear separation of powers can create favorable conditions for corruption, as it allows power to be concentrated in the hands of a small group of people without proper control.
2. Corruption of the Political Elite (X2): This factor indicates a situation where members of the political elite holding key positions in government and legislative bodies are susceptible to corrupt practices.Corrupt political elites can use their influence and resources for personal gain, which contributes to the spread of corruption in various spheres of public life.
(Figure 3. Theory of political influence on corruption) This theory emphasizes the importance of reforming political institutions and combating corruption in the political elite to combat corruption.

The theory of the control and responsibility system
The theory of the control and responsibility system suggests that the level of corruption (Y) in society is determined by the effectiveness of control mechanisms and the punishment system in government institutions.
1.The first factor, X1, relates to the transparency of the control system.This means how open and accessible the process of monitoring the activities of government bodies is.If the control system is transparent, then it allows corruption to be detected and prevented, making it visible to the public and external observers.2. The second factor, X2, concerns the effectiveness of accountability mechanisms.This includes punishment for corruption crimes and other violations committed by government officials.When accountability mechanisms work effectively, they create a threat to corrupt actors that can deter them from committing crimes.
(Figure 4. The theory of the control and responsibility system) This theory emphasizes the importance of strengthening the system of control and accountability in the fight against corruption, which helps to improve the transparency of government agencies and reduce the likelihood of corrupt practices.

Conclusions 8.1 Summary
The historical legacy of corruption in Russia, starting from the period of revolutions and the formation of Soviet power, has a significant impact on the modern manifestations of this phenomenon.The period of reforms and changes in the post-Soviet era also has its contribution to the formation of corrupt practices.Economic and structural factors, such as lack of accountability among Effectiveness of accountability mechanisms officials, play a key role in creating the conditions for corruption.Political aspects, including the lack of a clear separation of powers, also contribute to the spread of corruption.The cultural norm of corruption influences its prevalence, making it an accepted phenomenon in society.The role of the media and globalization should also not be underestimated, as they can both limit and spread corruption.The seriousness of the problem of corruption in Russia is emphasized by its high level, reflected in the ratings of international organizations.This requires an integrated and systematic approach to combating corruption at all levels of society and government.
In conclusion, various factors, ranging from historical heritage to economic, political, cultural and globalization aspects, play an important role in the formation and maintenance of corruption in Russia.Effectively combating this phenomenon requires concerted efforts on the part of society, government, and the international community.

Future outlook
When analyzing the factors leading to corruption in Russia, it is important to pay attention to the prospects and possible scenarios for the development of the situation in the future.One of the key perspectives is the need to carry out systemic reforms in various spheres of public life, such as economics, politics, legislation, and culture.These reforms should be aimed at strengthening transparency, increasing the accountability of officials, strengthening the rule of law and cultural change regarding corruption.But in Russia, the system of authoritarian power is maintained through corruption, which creates a paradoxical situation.All recommendations of international organizations and specialists can be effective only if there is a strong political will of the state.However, Russian political elites are more often interested in control over the former public property, rather than in the welfare of the population (Ershov, 2014).Therefore, relying on the political will of officials seems naive, since they are often part of a system that supports corruption.
An important aspect of the future is also the development of effective mechanisms for monitoring corruption and punishing its manifestations.This may include improving the system of supervision and control, tightening penalties for corruption crimes, and increasing transparency in the work of government bodies.Another paradox is that the formal institutions of the rule of law, while protecting the existing order of things, contribute to the strengthening of clientelism and corruption.Therefore, many people perceive the fight against corruption through legal means as slow and ineffective, which leads to disappointment and a desire to use illegal and extremely harsh methods to eradicate it.As well as important perspective is to strengthen the role of public organizations, civil society, and the media in the fight against corruption.The active participation of public structures and citizens can help identify corruption schemes, increase citizens' awareness of their rights and responsibilities, and create pressure on authorities to make changes.In the syncretic form of statehood, the bureaucracy performs not only the functions of power, but also controls property and disseminates ideology.Its influence in society depends on how developed and organized that society is (Levin & Satarov, 2012).The less developed it is, the greater the role played by the bureaucracy.However, bureaucracies often seek to maintain their dominant position and increase their power.The less people are willing to take responsibility, the more space the bureaucracy takes up, which leads to increased corruption.
In the context of globalization and international cooperation, it is also important to consider the role of the international community in the fight against corruption.The development and implementation of international anti-corruption standards and mechanisms, as well as the exchange of experience and best practices, can play an important role in reducing corruption risks (Gurzhiy, 2014).Finally, the prospects for anti-corruption efforts in Russia depend on a number of factors, including the implementation of systemic reforms, strengthened control mechanisms, increased public participation and international cooperation.The issue of combating corruption remains relevant and requires joint efforts on the part of all stakeholders to achieve positive changes in the future.

Limitations of the Research
As part of the research work on the factors leading to corruption in Russia, it is necessary to consider several limitations that may affect the validity and general applicability of the findings.First, restrictions on data access can limit the scope of analysis.Insufficient availability of information about corruption schemes or limited access to confidential data may reduce the objectivity of the study.It is important to note that the study faces limitations in access to recent and accessible information.Most of the existing materials about corruption in Russia were created at the end of the 20th and beginning of the 21st centuries.In addition, many resources are available only in Russian, which creates certain difficulties when carrying out research.Foreign materials on this topic also have significant differences from Russian materials and can cause difficulties in analysis.These limitations may make it difficult to obtain a complete and objective picture of the current situation with corruption in Russia.Sampling limitations may affect the representativeness of the results.If the sample is not broad enough or does not represent all population groups, it may distort the overall picture of corruption in society.