The relationship between terrorism and corruption: Panel data analysis on MENA countries

Terrorism, which has continued until today, has been a major threat to countries and their societies. Although studies have been carried out on terrorism since the first day of its existence, a clear definition and real reasons for its occurrence have not been revealed. This phenomenon, which continues its existence all over the world and has reached a global dimension, is a field of study in which the purpose, target, effects and results of its emergence continue to be investigated. The aim of the study is to examine theoretically and empirically how the phenomenon of corruption has an effect on the realization of terrorism. The study deals with the relationship between terrorism and corruption in 15 countries in the MENA (Middle East-North Africa) region. In the study, information was given about the concepts of terrorism-terrorism and corruption, and the link between them was supported by a literature review. In the empirical part of the study, the relationship between terrorism and corruption in MENA countries was tested with the Panel Data Analysis method as of 2012-2019. As a result of the analyzes made; It has been concluded that corruption is the financial basis of terrorism activities, that acts of corruption support terrorism and have a certain effect on it. The decrease in corruption behaviors in underdeveloped and/or developing countries such as MENA countries plays a restrictive and preventive role in the realization of terrorism. By increasing the welfare level of MENA countries to a certain extent, the problems created by these two phenomena can be prevented. When effective policies and strategies to be supported by cooperation in neighboring countries are made, these two phenomena can be prevented and an environment of trust can be created.