An Examination of the Elements of Grey Corruption within Iran's Administrative System

Subject Areas : human resource management

Somayeh Ahmadzadeh ¹ , ZAKIEH BEIKI ^{2 *} , علی اسماعیلی ³

1 - Shahid Ashrafi Esfahani university
2 -
3 - دانشگاه شهید اشرفی اصفهانی

Received: 2025-01-22 Accepted : 2025-03-09 Published : 2025-08-06

Keywords: Corruption, Gray Corruption, Iranian Administrative System,

Abstract :

Introduction: Administrative corruption constitutes an inevitable challenge encountered by organizations throughout their existence. This phenomenon undermines the efficiency of the administrative framework, compromises the legitimacy of the political system, and diminishes the desirability of the cultural and social institutions. Furthermore, it can precipitate a detrimental cycle that ultimately contributes to societal decline. The primary objective of this study is to examine the underlying elements of gray corruption within the Iranian administrative system.

Methodology: This investigation was executed as a cross-sectional survey employing a qualitative approach through thematic analysis, utilizing the six-stage methodology outlined by Brown and Clark (2006). The primary data collection instrument was a semi-structured, in-depth interview. Data obtained from interviews with ten experts were analyzed through thematic analysis until theoretical saturation was achieved, with coding conducted in three sequential stages.

Findings: The findings delineated seven principal organizing themes: the influence of politicians on the organizational system, the presence of ambiguity and the capacity to circumvent legal provisions, inadequate structuring of human resources, the absence of a management system grounded in professional qualifications, a deficiency of self-esteem among employees, an inefficient administrative system, and the lack of a robust culture committed to combating corruption.

Conclusion: To address the issue of gray corruption within the administrative system, comprehensive reforms are required in the pertinent sectors of analysis. Specifically, reforms in management, legal frameworks, and organizational culture have the potential to mitigate corruption and enhance the efficiency of governmental institutions.

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