CPI 2023 reveals a region in crisis
Berlin, 30 January 2024 – The 2023 Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) released today by Transparency International shows that Eastern Europe and Central Asia are grappling with dysfunctional rule of law, escalating authoritarianism, and pervasive corruption. Against a backdrop of widespread democratic regression and compromised justice systems, the result is a diminished grasp on controlling corruption.
Despite the strong challenges faced in much of the region, change is possible, as evidenced by progress in five countries which have significantly improved their CPI scores since 2014.
Altynai Myrzabekova, Eastern Europe and Central Asia Regional Advisor of Transparency International said:
“Public institutions, including the police, prosecutors, and the courts, often face challenges in investigating and punishing those who abuse their power to steal public funds. In a region marked by war and increased poverty, it is crucial for leaders to prioritise actions that contribute to the common good. Substantial reforms in justice systems across the region are key to preventing corruption from thriving.”
EASTERN EUROPE AND CENTRAL ASIA HIGHLIGHTS
The CPI ranks 180 countries and territories by their perceived levels of public sector corruption on a scale of zero (highly corrupt) to 100 (very clean).
The Eastern Europe and Central Asia average score of 35 out of 100 makes it the second lowest scoring region in the world, and only one country scores above 50.
Armenia (47), Moldova (42), Kosovo (41), Ukraine (36) and Uzbekistan (33) have significantly improved their CPI scores over the past 10 years.
Bosnia and Herzegovina (35), Turkey (34) and Turkmenistan (18) have declined. Turkey also reached its lowest score ever on the CPI, as did Serbia (36), Russia (26) and Tajikistan (20).
Azerbaijan (23), Tajikistan (20) and Turkmenistan (18) are the lowest in the region.
For each country’s individual score and changes over time, see the global 2023 CPI page. For in-depth analysis on tr
