Government corruption occurs when officials in positions of power misuse their authority for personal gain. This can include bribery, embezzlement, or favoritism, where decisions are made based on personal interests rather than the public good. Such actions undermine trust in government and can lead to ineffective policies and services. Corruption can take many forms, including kickbacks, where officials receive a portion of funds from contracts, or nepotism, where jobs are given to friends or family members. These practices can hinder economic development and create inequality, ultimately affecting the quality of life for citizens.