Wasta
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Wasta or wāsita (Arabic: واسِطة, romanized: wāsiṭah) is an Arabic word that loosely translates into nepotism or 'clout'. It refers to the use of personal connections or influence to achieve desired outcomes, particularly in governmental contexts. This can include expedited document processing, visa approvals, waiving of fines, or securing employment opportunities. The term is also extended to cronyism and nepotism in the allotment of public sector jobs.
In other words, wasta constitutes a form of favoritism, or what is informally spoken of in English as "pull" from connections (the opposite of "push"). Similar practices are observed worldwide, known as cronyism in English.
Etymology
[edit]Wasta is derived from the Modern Standard Arabic word (Arabic: واسِطَة, romanized: wāsiṭah) which can mean medium or intermediary. In contemporary usage, it signifies the use of personal networks or intermediaries to accomplish tasks or gain favors.[1]
In some Middle Eastern countries, the absence of strict anti-nepotism policies can lead to hiring practices where personal connections influence employment decisions. This phenomenon occurs in both public and private sectors and can result in the employment of individuals based on relationships rather than solely on qualifications.
In recent years, there has been a shift towards merit-based recruitment, especially among multinational corporations and professional firms operating in the Middle East. However, wasta remains prevalent in various sectors, reflecting its deep cultural roots.
Development and evolution
[edit]Although it has not been possible to determine exactly when the use of "wasta" became widespread, it is believed that various forms of "wasta" have existed in most Arab societies for centuries. Like other social customs or institutions, "wasta" is thought to have evolved in Middle Eastern societies because it is viewed as a means of providing better solutions to certain social problems. and resource allocation issues than could be achieved through other types of institutional arrangements.[2]
Notes
[edit]- ↑ Hans Wehr (1979), Arabic-English Dictionary.
- ↑ Al – Ramahi, Aseel. (2008). Wasta in Jordan: A Distinct Feature of (and Benefits for) Middle Eastern Society. Arab Law Quarterly, 22, 35 – 62.
Bibliography
[edit]- Regulation, Trust, and Cronyism in Middle Eastern Societies: The Simple Economics of 'Wasta'. (2011) Andy H. Barnett, Bruce Yandle, George Naufal, School of Business and Management-American University of Sharjah, Department of Economics- Clemson University, School of Business and Management- American University of Sharjah.
- Hutchings, K. & Weir, D. (2006). "Guanxi and Wasta: A comparison". Thunderbird International Business Review, 48(1), 141-156
- Izraeli, D. (1997). "Business Ethics in the Middle East". Journal of Business Ethics, 16(14), 1555–1560, doi:10.1023/A:1005863031132
- Kocherlakota, N. R. (1996). Money is Memory. Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis, Research Department Staff Report 218, 1-37