Potemkin Democracy

Potemkin Democracy

Mini Teaser: Georgia's image in the West is belied by the reality on the ground.

by Author(s): Charles King

The tax inspectorate has provided a similar source of graft. When examinations were held for a new intake of inspectors, thousands applied. The government lauded this response as a sign of citizens' faith in the newly reformed inspectorate, but average applicants knew better--a tax inspector's job was a sure ticket to prosperity. If anything, opportunities for state-sponsored dishonesty have probably expanded under Shevardnadze.

Essay Types: Essay