The vulnerability of community sport organizations to criminal interference

Abstract

There is a growing body of evidence suggesting that Community Sport Organizations (CSOs) are increasingly susceptible to individuals with criminal affiliations or intentions. Despite its significance, this subject has received limited examination and theoretical exploration. This gap is particularly pronounced when considering the factors contributing to the vulnerability of CSOs and their susceptibility to criminal interference, as well as the mechanisms facilitating connections between CSOs and individuals with criminal ties. Our investigation employed various methodologies, including media searches, expert interviews, and case studies, with a detailed examination of one particular case. Drawing upon distinct literature perspectives —research on occupational fraud within CSOs, studies addressing the normalization of corruption in organizational settings, and literature exploring unethical pro-organizational behavior—we conducted a comprehensive analysis of the data. Through our research approach, we identified legal, financial, structural, cultural, and environmental factors that increase the vulnerability and susceptibility of CSOs to criminal interference. These factors are exacerbated by dynamic processes of rationalization, neutralization, and normalization of unethical behavior. Our findings underscore the necessity of maintaining continuous vigilance regarding these factors and mechanisms to safeguard the public function of CSOs.