Canada, the Philippines fall on corruption index

Transparency International releases 2019 corruption index . . .

Transparency International, an international NGO leading the fight against corruption by working alongside governments and businesses, releases its Corruption Perception Index (CPI) annually. The organization has compiled the CPI since 2012 to help uncover the drivers of corruption. The CPI is based on 13 recognized external sources and, in particular, measures public sector corruption on factors such as bribery, diversion of public funds, effective prosecution of corruption cases, transparency, and adequacy of legal frameworks.

Wake up call for the Asia Pacific . . .

The Philippines suffered a setback last year, dropping 14 ranks down to 113th place. Canada also dropped three spots in the rankings, largely due to the SNC-Lavalin scandal, down to 12th place, well below its 5th ranking high in 2012. North Korea (172), Cambodia (162), Bangladesh (146), Russia (137), and Mexico (130) represent the most corrupt countries in the Asia Pacific, while New Zealand (1) and Singapore (4) remain two of the least corrupt countries.

Corruption inhibits economic growth . . .

The main concern with corruption is that it inhibits economic growth by creating inefficiencies and eroding public confidence. The CPI suggests that ”reducing big money in politics and promoting inclusive political decision-making are essential to curb corruption.” However, many countries in the Asia Pacific consistently lack transparency, and restrict public participation in the decision-making process. Other CPI recommendations to reduce corruption include managing conflicts of interest and regulating lobbying activities. Finally, it is important to keep in mind that corruption is far from eradicated even in countries topping the CPI rankings: developed countries are often key actors in facilitating transnational corruption in developing countries.

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