1 / 15Transparency International, a global non-governmental organisation based in Berlin, that focuses on combating corruption and promoting anti-corruption measures worldwide, released the list of the most corrupt countries of 2024 ranking 180 countries on the list With over 100 national chapters, Transparency International publishes key reports like the Corruption Perceptions Index and the Global Corruption Barometer. Transparency International is a member of various international organisations, including the UN Global Compact and the G20 Think Tanks, and works towards achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. In 2017, Transparency International dis-accredited its US chapter. (Image: Reuters)
2 / 15Countries ranked at the bottom of the CPI tend to exhibit systemic corruption that affects sectors of public life due to weak governance, lack of accountability, or political instability. In such countries, corruption can be pervasive in everyday transactions, from public officials accepting bribes to the misuse of state resources by those in power. The CPI is not only a reflection of corruption within a country, but serves as a tool for advocacy, highlighting the need for reform. Take a look at the 10 most corrupt countries in the world of 2024, according to the non-governmental organisation and find out where India, China and Pakistan rank. (Image: Shutterstock)
3 / 15Rank 1. Country: South Sudan | South Sudan has been ranked as the most corrupt country globally, with widespread corruption linked to its ongoing civil conflict and political instability. The lack of a functioning government, combined with large-scale mismanagement of oil revenues, exacerbates the country’s corruption issues. (Image: Reuters)
4 / 15Rank 2. Country: Somalia | Somalia continues to struggle with systemic corruption amid a fragile political environment. The absence of a strong central government and the influence of militant groups like Al-Shabaab have contributed significantly to the country’s corruption problems. (Image: Reuters)
5 / 15Rank 3. Country: Venezuela | Venezuela’s crisis has worsened corruption, with political elites often accused of embezzling state funds and using the country’s oil wealth for personal gain. The economic collapse and government mismanagement have left the country in a state of extreme corruption. (Image: Reuters)
6 / 15Rank 4. Country: Syria | Syria’s ongoing civil war has created a breeding ground for corruption, with both government forces and rebel groups accused of siphoning off resources. The conflict has further weakened institutions, making it difficult to combat corruption at any level. (Image: Reuters)
7 / 15Rank 5. Country: Libya | Libya’s post-Gaddafi instability has led to a breakdown in governance, with various militias controlling resources and engaging in widespread corruption. The lack of central authority and accountability has allowed corruption to flourish in every sector. (Image: Reuters)
8 / 15Rank 6. Country: Eritrea | Eritrea’s tightly controlled authoritarian regime has been a key factor in the country’s high corruption levels. The government’s monopoly over resources and repression of political opposition creates an environment where corruption is pervasive. (Image: Reuters)
9 / 15Rank 7. Country: Equatorial Guinea | Equatorial Guinea has been heavily criticized for its corrupt leadership, with the president and his family accused of embezzling oil revenues. Despite the country’s vast oil wealth, much of its population remains impoverished due to widespread corruption. (Image: Reuters)
10 / 15Rank 8. Country: Nicaragua | Nicaragua suffers from high levels of corruption, with the Ortega government accused of embezzling state funds and stifling opposition. The political environment and lack of transparency make the country vulnerable to corruption in public institutions. (Image: Reuters)
11 / 15Rank 9. Country: North Korea | North Korea’s authoritarian regime is notorious for its secrecy and corruption. The ruling Kim family, along with high-ranking officials, are accused of hoarding state resources while the majority of the population faces extreme poverty. (Image: Reuters)
12 / 15Rank 10. Country: Myanmar | Myanmar has faced extreme corruption due to military rule, with officials embezzling resources and suppressing opposition. The military junta’s control over the economy and lack of accountability have made the country one of the most corrupt in the world. (Image: Reuters)
13 / 15Rank 76. Country: China | China ranks 76th on the Corruption Perceptions Index, reflecting ongoing challenges with corruption in both its public sector and state-owned enterprises. Despite significant economic growth, the lack of transparency and accountability continues to undermine efforts to address corruption in the country. (Image: Reuters)
14 / 15Rank 96. Country: India | India ranks 96th on the Transparency International Corruption Perception Index, reflecting persistent challenges in tackling corruption despite ongoing efforts for reforms. (Image: Reuters)
15 / 15Rank 135. Country: Pakistan | Pakistan is ranked 135th on the Corruption Perceptions Index, which highlights the widespread corruption across government institutions and law enforcement. Political instability and weak accountability mechanisms have contributed to the persistence of corruption at multiple levels of government. (Image: Reuters)
