Corruption remains one of the biggest problems in the world today. This is according to the latest Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) 2025, published by Transparency International. The results show that while some countries have seen improvements, the situation is stagnating or even worsening globally.
The index ranks 182 countries and territories according to the level of perceived corruption in the public sector. The scale ranges from 0, indicating a very high level of corruption, to 100, indicating a clean and transparent environment.
The world is stagnating, the average is falling
The report notes that only a minority of countries have managed to significantly reduce corruption in recent years. While 31 countries have improved since 2012, most others have stagnated or worsened. In addition, the global average has fallen to a historic low of 42 points, and more than two-thirds of countries do not even reach the 50-point mark.
According to the organisation, the impact of corruption is substantial. They are manifested, for example, by a lack of funding in the health sector, unbuilt flood control measures or limited opportunities for the young generation.
The Democrats are losing their edge
A worrying trend is the decline in results even in traditionally strong democracies. The United States, the United Kingdom and New Zealand have seen their scores fall, which experts link to the weakening of institutional independence, the politicisation of the judiciary or the growing influence of large financial donations in politics.
At the same time, Transparency International warns that space for civil society, journalists and NGOs is being restricted. They play a key role in controlling power and exposing the misuse of public funds.
The cleanest countries in the world
The Nordic countries have been at the top of the ranking for a long time. Denmark was again the best performer, followed by Finland and Singapore. At the other end of the ranking are South Sudan, Somalia and Venezuela, which have long been plagued by political instability, conflict and weak institutions.
At the same time, experts point out that even countries with relatively low levels of corruption can indirectly contribute to problems by allowing money laundering or the movement of illicit funds across borders.
Czech Republic improved, Slovakia fell
Positive news for the Czech Republic. The Czech Republic has improved in the latest ranking, moving up to 39th place, up from 46th place a year earlier. Slovakia, on the other hand, fell from 59th to 61st place.
The fight against corruption has a solution, experts say
According to Transparency International, there is a clear plan to improve the situation. Strengthening the independence of the judiciary, rigorous control of public spending, transparent financing of politics and protection of media freedom and civil society are key.
At a time of climate crisis, geopolitical tensions and increasing polarisation, the organisation believes that accountable and transparent national leadership is more important than ever. Unless political elites take action, corruption can continue to undermine economic development and citizens' trust in democracy.
transparency.org/gnews.cz - GH
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