The Structural Factors Affecting Income Distribution emphasizing on Corruption

Authors

1 Faculty member of the Institute for Research and Development in Humanities , SAMT Organization

2 MA in Economics

Abstract

  Using panel data structure and GMM estimation method, this study, investigates the possible effects of Corruption on income distribution of selected MENA countries concerning the period 1996-2010. The Corruption Perceptions Index and Gini Coefficient are employed to indicate the level of corruption and income inequality, respectively. In addition, some other variables are used as potential control measures affecting income distribution.   The results show that corruption along with population growth rate and enrollment level increases the income inequality, significantly. The openness of economy has no significant effect on income distribution. So, the conclusion indicates that the corruption and population growth have the greatest effect on income distribution. This implies the importance of these variables (e.g. demographic transition and corruption controls) concerning policy­ debates.

Keywords