Anti-Corruption Consequences of Pro-transparency Grassroots Initiatives. Evidence from the Spanish and Italian Cases

Whereas the relationship between transparency and corruption is still a highly debated issue in the literature, empirical investigations have often pointed to the risky effects that increased governmental transparency might have on grassroots anti-corruption efforts. Moving from this background, the chapter reflects on the anti-corruption and pro-accountability consequences of transparency policies, looking at the mediating role of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs). Focusing on Spain and Italy, where transparency laws resulted from grassroots campaigns, the chapter builds on qualitative interviews and document analysis to explore the role of CSOs as agents of transparency, contributing to a nuanced understanding of the complex interaction between transparency, anti-corruption, and societal accountability.