What is a primary reason for the prevalence of police corruption in Russia?

One of the primary reasons for the prevalence of police corruption in Russia is the very low pay that law enforcement officers receive, which often drives them to engage in bribery and extortion. When salaries are insufficient to meet basic living standards, officers may view corruption as a necessary means of supplementing their income. This economic pressure, combined with the lack of oversight and accountability within the police force, creates an environment where corrupt practices become commonplace. Additionally, the intersection of low pay with a culture that may tolerate or even expect bribery contributes to the persistence of corrupt behavior.

In contrast, while high visibility of law enforcement can increase scrutiny, it does not directly address the underlying economic incentives for corruption. Strict anti-corruption laws, while necessary for accountability, may not be effectively enforced, and extensive training programs alone cannot combat the deeply ingrained issues related to economic disparity and systemic corruption. Without addressing the foundational issue of low wages, other measures are often insufficient to deter corrupt practices among police officers.