A Transparency International report reveals that many nations have their worst corruption scores in more than a decade, with 47 out of 180 countries showing declines. South Sudan ranks lowest at eight points, while Denmark tops the list with 90 points. The report highlights that corruption severely undermines efforts to combat climate change and emphasizes the need for improved transparency and governance worldwide.
A recent survey conducted by Transparency International reveals that numerous countries are experiencing their worst corruption scores in over a decade. In 2024, out of 180 nations evaluated, 47 reported their lowest scores since the implementation of the current methodology in 2012. This grim finding underscores the alarming persistence of high global corruption levels, as efforts to mitigate them continue to falter.
The report emphasizes the detrimental impact of public sector corruption on critical issues like climate change. It warns that insufficient transparency and accountability could lead to misappropriation of climate funds, while undue private sector influence hampers the enactment of ambitious policies essential for combating environmental challenges.
The Corruption Perceptions Index ranks countries on a scale from zero, indicating a highly corrupt environment, to 100, reflecting a very clean system. This year, the global average remains at 43, with most countries scoring below 50. Denmark retains its top position with a score of 90, followed by Finland and Singapore. Conversely, South Sudan now occupies the lowest rank with only eight points, overtaking Somalia, which has a score of nine.
Further observed declines include the United States, which fell from 69 points to 65, dropping to 28th place following criticisms of its judiciary. Notably, the U.S. Supreme Court has introduced ethics codes amid ongoing questions about enforcement and efficacy. Other Western nations, such as France and Germany, similarly experienced declines in their corruption scores.
Several nations in Europe and beyond are grappling with rising corruption. For instance, Slovakia’s rating fell under new leadership that has diminished anti-corruption measures. Russia continued its downward trend, exacerbating issues of authoritarianism influenced by the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, while Ukraine shows gradual improvements in judicial initiatives despite a slight drop in its own score.
The Middle East and North Africa face challenging anti-corruption landscapes, characterized by authoritarian governance and wealth concentration. Nonetheless, there are emerging opportunities for reform in certain contexts, such as changes following the Assad regime in Syria. Sub-Saharan Africa bears the brunt of corruption, reflecting the lowest average score among all regions. Additionally, governments across Asia and the Pacific are failing to fulfill their anti-corruption commitments, highlighting a dire need for renewed efforts.
The Transparency International survey uncovers a troubling trend of worsening corruption worldwide, with numerous countries scoring their lowest in over a decade. The findings reveal systemic challenges and indicate that while some regions are making advances, significant hurdles remain for the global fight against corruption, particularly in areas heavily influenced by political control and lack of accountability. Focus on transparency and effective governance remains paramount to addressing these ongoing issues.
Original Source: apnews.com
