Beyond the Averages: Gender-Sensitive Data on Corruption for Inclusive Policy Design

Data is essential for developing effective public policies. Without it, researchers and policymakers cannot effectively address the most pressing issues, making data quality a crucial concern. Scholars working at the intersection of gender and corruption have shown that corruption not only affects genders differently but also includes gender-specific forms, such as sextortion, which disproportionately impact certain groups due to varying levels of vulnerability. However, existing data is limited, making it difficult to fully understand this intersection. This chapter reviews the available quantitative data to explore the intersectionality of gender and corruption and to support the formulation of targeted policies. It argues that, beyond traditional bribery measures related to access to public services, additional indicators should capture corruption linked to access to positions of power. The chapter also highlights the scarcity of data on sexualized corruption and emphasizes the need for more comprehensive data. Furthermore, it advocates for including sexual corruption in broader violence surveys, recognizing it as a form of gender-based violence—an approach that could reduce data collection costs while expanding the evidence base for policy formulation.