But Transparency International’s 2024 corruption report show a declining landscape.

Denmark secured the first position in the Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) for 2024 – the same it enjoyed the previous six years – but globally, corruption was on the rise rather than retreat.

The European nation with a population of less than 6 million people scored 90 out of maximum 100 points. It was followed by Finland with 88 points and Singapore with 84, according to Transparency International’s recently-released 2024 CPI report. 

The bottom performers were South Sudan (8), Somalia (9), and Venezuela (10), which ranked lowest due to conflicts, weak institutions, and restricted freedoms.

As many as 180 countries and recognized territories were surveyed based on perceived public-sector corruption, using a scale from 0 (highly corrupt) to 100 (very clean). The global average remains stuck at 43, with over two-thirds of countries scoring below 50. Since 2012, 32 countries have significantly improved, but 148 have stagnated or worsened.

Generally, countries with strong democratic institutions tend to have lower corruption. Full democracies average 73 on the CPI, while flawed democracies score 47, and authoritarian regimes average just 33. This highlights the importance of democracy and good governance in fighting corruption.

Regional trends

Corruption levels vary across different parts of the world, the report says.

Western Europe & the European Union in particular remains the top performer but has declined for the second year in a row due to weak law enforcement and leaders prioritizing business interests. Eastern Europe & Central Asia continues to face weak justice systems and political instability.

Middle East & North Africa saw a slight improvement but still struggles with conflict and authoritarianism. Sub-Saharan Africa has the lowest regional score, but some countries show promising progress.

The Americas struggle with organized crime, political corruption, and impunity. The report does not reflect the anti-democratic transformations President Donald Trump has been pursuing in the U.S. since he took office last January.

Asia-Pacific has both improving and declining countries, with corruption worsening climate challenges.

More to read:
Global Integrity closes after almost two decades of service

Thirty-two countries have significantly improved their scores since 2012, including Moldova (43), Kuwait (46), and Uruguay (76). Meanwhile, 47 countries have declined, including democratic nations like the United States (65) and New Zealand (83), as well as autocratic states like Russia (22) and Eswatini (27).

The 2024 report put a special emphasis on the link between corruption and the global efforts to combat climate change. Transparency found that funds meant for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and protecting communities are often stolen or misused. Additionally, powerful industries influence policies to serve their interests, preventing meaningful climate action.

***
NewsCafe is an independent outlet. Our sources of income amount to ads and subscriptions. You can support us via PayPal: office[at]rudeana.com or https://paypal.me/newscafeeu, or https://buymeacoffee.com/newscafe - any amount is welcome. You may also want to like or share our story, that would help us too.