Hudud and corruption: a critical analysis of proposals to cut off the hands of the corrupt in Indonesia

Corruption is a major problem in Indonesia, and many Islamist hardliners take the view that applying hudud, for example, by cutting off the hand of a thief, will end it. Corruption is closely linked to the way governments conduct their affairs in modern societies, and therefore also to the economic activity. It is unlikely that corruption can be substantially reduced without modifying the way governments operate. ‘Systemic corruption’ within the public sector can be defined as ‘the regular, habitual use of public office for private benefit, resulting in a reduction in the quality, or availability, of government-provided goods and services’. Successful law enforcement and anti-corruption strategies are largely dependent upon both the willingness and availability of individuals to provide information, and/or to give evidence. Individuals will not be willing or available unless they have confidence that the government will protect their rights and safety.