India’s position in the Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) for 2024 has revealed a concerning trend. The country ranked 96 out of 180 nations, with a score of 38, which is a decline from 39 in 2023. The CPI, published by Transparency International, evaluates perceived public sector corruption based on expert assessments and business surveys. The scale ranges from zero, indicating high corruption, to 100, indicating a corruption-free environment.
About the Corruption Perceptions Index
The CPI ranks countries based on their perceived levels of corruption. It uses a scale of 0 to 100. A lower score indicates higher corruption levels. The index is crucial for understanding global corruption trends. It influences international relations and economic policies.
India’s Declining Score and Ranking
- India’s score fell from 39 in 2023 to 38 in 2024.
- In 2022, India had a score of 40. The country ranked 93 in 2023, indicating a worsening perception of corruption.
- Comparatively, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh ranked lower than India, while China scored better at 76.
Global Context of Corruption
Denmark, Finland, and Singapore topped the CPI as the least corrupt nations. The report brought into light that 32 countries have improved their corruption levels since 2012. However, 148 countries have stagnated or worsened. The global average score remains at 43, with over two-thirds of nations scoring below 50.
Impact of Corruption on Climate Action
Corruption hampers climate action. It obstructs efforts to reduce emissions and adapt to climate change. Funds meant for climate initiatives are often misappropriated. Countries with high CPI scores could lead in corruption-resistant climate actions but often prioritise fossil fuel interests.
Corruption’s Broader Implications
Corruption is linked to declining democracy, instability, and human rights violations. It poses a threat beyond economic development. The international community must prioritise combating corruption. This is essential for promoting peace and sustainability globally.
Need for Concrete Action
The 2024 CPI report stresses the urgency of addressing global corruption. It calls for immediate and sustained efforts to combat this issue. Tackling corruption is vital for safeguarding democratic values and human rights.
Challenges in Addressing Corruption
Despite awareness, many countries struggle to combat corruption effectively. The presence of financial hubs facilitates illicit activities. Corruption remains an evolving threat that requires global cooperation and commitment.
Future Directions
To improve rankings, countries must implement transparent governance practices. Strengthening institutions and enforcing anti-corruption laws is crucial. Public awareness and engagement play role in combating corruption.
Questions for UPSC:
- Critically analyse the relationship between corruption and climate action in contemporary society.
- What are the factors contributing to India’s low ranking in the Corruption Perceptions Index? Discuss with examples.
- Estimate the impact of corruption on human rights and democratic values globally.
- Point out the similarities and differences in corruption levels among South Asian countries based on the 2024 CPI report.
Answer Hints:
1. Critically analyse the relationship between corruption and climate action in contemporary society.
- Corruption misappropriates funds intended for climate initiatives, hindering effective action.
- Undue influence from corrupt practices obstructs policy-making aimed at climate change mitigation.
- Countries with high CPI scores often prioritize fossil fuel interests over sustainable practices.
- Corruption leads to environmental degradation, exacerbating the effects of climate change.
- Successful climate action requires transparent governance and accountability to combat corruption.
2. What are the factors contributing to India’s low ranking in the Corruption Perceptions Index? Discuss with examples.
- Persistent bureaucratic corruption and lack of accountability in public sector institutions.
- Weak enforcement of anti-corruption laws and inadequate judicial processes.
- Political patronage and favoritism that perpetuate corrupt practices.
- Limited transparency in government contracts and public expenditure.
- Examples include high-profile corruption cases that remain unresolved, reflecting systemic issues.
3. Estimate the impact of corruption on human rights and democratic values globally.
- Corruption undermines democratic processes by eroding public trust in institutions.
- It leads to human rights violations, as resources meant for welfare are misappropriated.
- Corruption encourages inequality, disproportionately affecting marginalized communities.
- It can destabilize governments, leading to authoritarian regimes and loss of freedoms.
- The cycle of corruption and repression hinders social progress and development.
4. Point out the similarities and differences in corruption levels among South Asian countries based on the 2024 CPI report.
- Similarities include pervasive corruption across the region, affecting governance and public trust.
- India (96) and Pakistan (135) both face corruption challenges, but India ranks higher.
- Sri Lanka (121) shows a similar struggle with corruption amid political instability.
- Bangladesh (149) has the lowest ranking, indicating severe corruption issues impacting development.
- China (76) demonstrates a relatively better score, showcasing different governance approaches to corruption.
