I always wondered what the single greatest threat to economies and democracies around the world was. I looked for something that affects countries of all sizes and transcends religious and cultural barriers. One word came to mind: corruption.

First, I thought the lack of money and resources could be the main hindrance in developing countries. If countries had more money, then they could provide food for their people and solve poverty. But then I realized that every country – at least theoretically – can have what economists call a comparative advantage at selling something in the world market no matter how inefficient these countries are.

Realistically speaking, some of the countries we consider poor are the ones that possess some of the most valuable natural resources in the world. For example, Venezuela has some of the largest oil and water reserves. Yet many people do not have drinking water and unemployment levels are quickly rising as inflation reaches unprecedented stages. Therefore, lack of resources is not the underlying problem.

And if a lack of humanity was the problem, people in industrialized, educated and more progressive nations would not be killing each other over religion, race and immigration issues.

This led me to realize that corruption eclipses all of these global issues.

The potential for corruption is in all of us. It’s like a cancer that eats away at people’s consciences, spreading to the smallest corners of the mind. Our love of money turns people into parasites, preying on our own brothers and sisters for personal gain.

Corruption infects politicians, the education system, the police, the poor and the rich alike. Even religious institutions are not immune. It is hard to believe our friends would try to harm us. However, the very same politicians we elect to represent our will are the ones who do not hesitate to sell their souls and stab you in the back for their thirty pieces of silver.

Around the world, corruption is what leads to the assignation of elected leaders and prevents many other promising leaders from assuming power. It’s what makes millions of people in the most powerful nation go without health coverage or a home. Due to corruption, the water rights of Ecuador now belong to private corporations.

Corruption cooks books, makes markets collapse and governments fail. And despite overwhelming opposition, dishonest presidents remain in power.

The future of sustainable development, the democratic process and a sound economy depend on our reaction to this threat.

People need to wake up, unite and conquer their weaknesses. It is possible to dream and to live in peace. The change could start small, but even the smallest snowball can turn into an avalanche.

Everyone needs to be accountable for their actions. Awareness of this problem needs to be developed in order to prevent our lesser impulses. In other words, helping people stay honest and building values that create virtues.

There is no better way to show our love for our fellow man than by standing up against corruption. This is the only way to cure this cancer before it consumes our societies.