What is the ruling on paying a sum of money for employment out of necessity? Is this sum considered a bribe? And is it permissible to pay a bribe when one is compelled to do so?

Bribery is forbidden and is a grave sin. The Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, cursed the one who gives a bribe, the one who takes it, and the intermediary. Societal corruption results from bribery, as it nullifies rights and helps falsehood prevail. However, if a person is forced to pay a bribe to obtain a right or to avert injustice, there is no sin upon him; the sin falls upon the taker.