The 2024 Corruption Perceptions Index by Transparency International reveals increasing global corruption levels, with significant countries such as the U.S. and France experiencing declines. With a stagnant global average of 43, and 47 nations reporting their lowest scores since 2012, concerns are raised about declining anti-corruption efforts worldwide. Denmark remains the cleanest country, while South Sudan ranks lowest.
On 11 February, Transparency International published a report highlighting a disturbing rise in corruption levels across several nations, including significant powers like the United States and France, as well as authoritarian regimes such as Russia and Venezuela. The 2024 Corruption Perceptions Index revealed that 47 out of 180 countries recorded their worst scores since the methodology’s update in 2012.
The index, which assesses public sector corruption based on thirteen data sources, including information from the World Bank and the World Economic Forum, shows a stagnant global average of 43, with over two-thirds of countries scoring below 50. Denmark continues to lead the index with 90 points, followed by Finland with 88 points and Singapore at 84. Notably, New Zealand dropped to fourth place with a score of 83.
The United States experienced a decline from 69 to 65 points, slipping from 24th to 28th place. Transparency International expressed concerns regarding the integrity of the judiciary, emphasizing the lack of strong enforcement mechanisms within the U.S. Supreme Court’s ethics code. France saw a drop of four points to 67, placing it 25th, while Germany shared 15th place with Canada at 75 points.
Mexico’s score fell by five points to 26 due to insufficient judicial actions against significant corruption cases despite commitments from former President Andrés Manuel López Obrador. Under Prime Minister Robert Fico, Slovakia diminished by five points to 49, following the erosion of crucial anti-corruption measures. Russia’s score plummeted to 22 points, reflecting an increase in authoritarianism since the invasion of Ukraine, while Ukraine, despite losing a point to 35, was acknowledged for improvements in judicial independence and high-level corruption management.
Corruption remains rampant in the Middle East and North Africa, where leaders continue to stifle dissent and enrich themselves. Sub-Saharan Africa reported the lowest regional average at 33, while the Asia-Pacific region exhibited limited enhancements in anti-corruption efforts.
The 2024 Corruption Perceptions Index reveals a concerning global trend of increasing corruption levels across numerous countries, particularly amongst established powers and authoritarian regimes. The index indicates stagnation and decline in scores for several nations, including the United States and France, stressing a need for renewed anti-corruption efforts. Areas like the Middle East, North Africa, and Sub-Saharan Africa continue to struggle with systemic issues, underscoring the complexity of addressing global corruption.
Original Source: globalsouthworld.com
