Abstract:
After American and coalition forces invaded Iraq, captured documents revealed that Saddam Hussein had maintained detailed records of bribes that were paid to corrupt European politicians, corporate executives and front companies. Iraqi oil allocation certificates were issued by Saddam to gain leverage at the United Nations Security Council during the debate to impose sanctions on Iraq. Those individuals taking Iraqi bribes kicked-back money to Saddam. Corruption peaked during the UN administered Oil for Food relief effort to benefit the Iraqi people.