Norm Localization: How do developing nations localize international norms promoted by international organizations and why? The Case of Localization of Anti- Corruption Norms in Kenya

This master thesis looks at how developing nations localize international norms promoted by international organizations. To achieve this aim, a single in-depth case study of how Kenya has localized anti-corruption norms promoted by the World Bank was undertaken. Building from the theoretical argument on norm localization from Amitav Acharya, norm localization is not passive but involves the reinterpretation and adoption of external norms based on the local context. Clearly, the anti-corruption norms were localized into the Kenyan context, but what was the outcome? According to Acharya, the potential outcome of norm localization is either full adoption, partial localization, or full rejection. Process tracing was conducted to identify how the localization occurred, why it happened, and the outcome. Documents from the World Bank, the Kenyan Government and institutions, among others, were studied to indicate the localization process. In line with the analysis conducted on three...Show moreThis master thesis looks at how developing nations localize international norms promoted by international organizations. To achieve this aim, a single in-depth case study of how Kenya has localized anti-corruption norms promoted by the World Bank was undertaken. Building from the theoretical argument on norm localization from Amitav Acharya, norm localization is not passive but involves the reinterpretation and adoption of external norms based on the local context. Clearly, the anti-corruption norms were localized into the Kenyan context, but what was the outcome? According to Acharya, the potential outcome of norm localization is either full adoption, partial localization, or full rejection. Process tracing was conducted to identify how the localization occurred, why it happened, and the outcome. Documents from the World Bank, the Kenyan Government and institutions, among others, were studied to indicate the localization process. In line with the analysis conducted on three different outlines of institutionalization, governmental efforts, and legitimacy, the findings showed that partial localization was achieved but was not entirely successful, as corruption cases did not subside in Kenya. The leading cause was that the country was undergoing a major political change, and several significant scandals dismantled the sitting cabinet ministers. This emphasized that understanding the local contexts is vital for localization to occur successfully.Show less

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Norm Localization: How do developing nations localize international norms promoted by international organizations and why? The Case of Localization of Anti- Corruption Norms in Kenya