Declining Anti-Corruption Efforts in Established Democracies: A Global Concern

A recent survey by Transparency International reveals a troubling decline in anti-corruption efforts among established democracies, with significant implications for the United States. The 2025 Corruption Perceptions Index ranks Denmark, Finland, and Singapore as the top three countries, while South Sudan and Somalia occupy the lowest positions. The report indicates that 122 out of 182 nations scored below 50 points, with the global average dropping to 42, the lowest in over a decade. Notably, only five countries achieved scores above 80, a decrease from 12 a decade ago.

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The United States scored 64 points, placing it 29th in the index, marking its worst performance since the new methodology was adopted in 2012. The report highlights several factors contributing to this decline, including the targeting of independent voices such as NGOs and journalists, the normalization of conflicted politics, and actions undermining judicial independence. These trends suggest a growing acceptance of corrupt practices within the political landscape.

The Independent

The survey also points to U.S. funding cuts for overseas civil society groups as a detrimental factor in global anti-corruption efforts. Critics argue that these cuts have emboldened political leaders in various countries to further restrict independent voices. Former President Donald Trump’s decision to freeze enforcement of the 1977 law prohibiting bribery of foreign officials has been criticized for potentially disadvantaging American companies while allowing foreign competitors to gain an upper hand.

The Independent

The report indicates that while some countries have seen improvements in their corruption scores, many others have experienced significant declines. Countries such as Hungary, Turkey, and Nicaragua have seen their scores drop dramatically since 2012. Conversely, nations like Estonia, the Seychelles, and South Korea have improved their standings. The report underscores the importance of civil society in combating corruption, particularly in countries like Ukraine, which has seen a slight improvement following significant political upheaval.

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Critics of U.S. anti-corruption strategies argue that recent policy changes have weakened the country's global leadership in promoting good governance. The report suggests that the erosion of accountability and transparency in the U.S. may have broader implications for international anti-corruption efforts, as other nations may take cues from perceived U.S. practices.

The Independent

• “While the data has yet to fully reflect developments in 2025, the use of public office to target and restrict independent voices such as NGOs and journalists, the normalization of conflicted and transactional politics, the politicization of prosecutorial decision making, and actions that undermine judicial independence, among many others, all send a dangerous signal that corrupt practices are acceptable,” — Transparency International

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• “it sounds good on paper but in practicality, it's a disaster.” — Donald Trump, on the enforcement of the 1977 law against bribery.

The Independent

In summary, the Transparency International survey highlights a concerning trend in the decline of anti-corruption efforts among democracies, particularly in the United States, raising alarms about the potential for increased corruption globally.

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