# Wasta

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{{Short description|Concept of nepotism prevalent in the Middle East}}
{{for|the town in the United States|Wasta, South Dakota}}
{{Multiple issues|
{{globalize|date=October 2024}}
{{more footnotes needed|date=February 2011}}
{{more citations needed|date=February 2011}}
}}

'''Wasta''' or '''wāsita''' ({{Langx|ar|واسِطة|translit=wāsiṭah}}) is an [Arabic](/source/Arabic_language) word that loosely translates into [nepotism](/source/nepotism) or '[clout](/source/Power_(social_and_political))'. 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](/source/cronyism) and [nepotism](/source/nepotism) in the allotment of [public sector](/source/public_sector) jobs.

In other words, wasta constitutes a form of [favoritism](/source/In-group_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](/source/cronyism) in English.

==Etymology==
Wasta is derived from the Modern Standard [Arabic](/source/Arabic) word ({{Langx|ar|واسِطَة|translit=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.<ref>[Hans Wehr](/source/Hans_Wehr) (1979), ''[Arabic-English Dictionary](/source/Arabic-English_Dictionary)''.</ref>

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.

==Notes==
<references/>

==Bibliography==
* ''Regulation, Trust, and Cronyism in Middle Eastern Societies: The Simple Economics of 'Wasta'''. (2011) Andy H. Barnett, [Bruce Yandle](/source/Bruce_Yandle), George Naufal, School of Business and Management-[American University of Sharjah](/source/American_University_of_Sharjah), Department of Economics- [Clemson University](/source/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](/source/Thunderbird_International_Business_Review)'', 48(1), 141-156
* Izraeli, D. (1997). "Business Ethics in the Middle East". ''[Journal of Business Ethics](/source/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](/source/Federal_Reserve_Bank_of_Minneapolis), Research Department Staff Report 218, 1-37

Category:Nepotism
Category:Arab culture
Category:Culture of Pakistan
Category:Pakistani social culture

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