For many large, international companies that do business in less developed countries, corruption is a part of everyday life. Without bribing public officials, their companies could never build a factory, hire employees, get permission to build infrastructure, or receive shipments from international vendors. Shipping merchandise out of these countries can be equally difficult, with customs agents demanding unofficial payments to allow the shipment to be made.
1. If you worked for one of these companies, how would you respond to being asked by your boss to pay a bribe?
2. Are such bribes a necessary part of doing business abroad?