Corruption and Democratic Transition in Eastern Europe

Marija Zurnić is an independent researcher in anti-corruption studies and discourse analysis in Southeast Europe.

“Zurnić’s book on corruption scandals and institutional change in Serbia after Milošević is a valuable contribution to the discussion about the entanglement of public discourse and institutional change. … her book is therefore a must-read for scholars interested in that country’s transition to democracy, and also in democratic processes more generally, and corruption discourses more specifically.” (Kathrin Jurkat, Südosteuropa Journal of Politics and Society, Vol. 68 (2), 2020)“The book will appeal to researchers and practitioners who are interested in the matters of corruption and democratic transformation on a broader level. … the book provides a welcome addition to the academic discourse on corruption in Eastern Europe, the political and economic transformation of authoritarian states, and public perceptions of a transition that is ongoing, with no clear end in sight.” (Nina Markovic Khaze, Europe-Asia Studies, Vol. 72 (1), 2020)

• 1. Introduction: Political Scandals and Transition in Serbia.- 2. Yugoslavia from Kingdom to Socialist Federation: Political Order and Political Corruption.- 3. Milošević’s Rule and Corruption.- 4. Confronting Corruption in Post-Milošević Serbia: Discourse and Institutions.- 5. Money Laundering and Privatisation: The Money in Cyprus Scandal and the Privatisation of Jugoremedija.- 6. State, Interest and Political Corruption: The Bankruptcy of Sartid and the Privatisation of C Market.- 7.Institution-Building and Institutionalised Corruption: The Port of Belgrade Privatisation and Swine Flu Scandals.- 8. Conclusions: Political Scandals and Political Action.