Italy Slips in Global Corruption Perceptions Index
Italy has experienced a notable decline in its standing on the global stage concerning perceived corruption. The nation has dropped to 52nd place out of 180 countries in the 2024 Corruption Perception Index (CPI), published by Transparency International on February 11, 2025. This new ranking represents a loss of ten positions compared to its previous standing.
Details of the Decline
The 2024 CPI assigned Italy a score of 54 out of 100, where 100 signifies a very clean public sector and 0 indicates a highly corrupt one. This score is a decrease of two points from its 2023 score of 56. In the 2023 index, Italy was ranked 42nd. The drop to 52nd place marks the first decline for Italy in the CPI since 2012, following a period of general improvement.
Factors Contributing to Weakened Progress
Transparency International highlighted several factors contributing to Italy's weakened progress in combating corruption. The organization noted that 'recent reforms and unresolved issues are weakening progress in combating corruption'. Specific areas of concern include:
- A lack of comprehensive regulations concerning conflicts of interest between public and private sectors.
- The absence of effective lobbying legislation.
- Delays in the implementation of the Register of Beneficial Owners, which is crucial for anti-money laundering efforts.
Implications and Outlook
The Corruption Perception Index defines corruption as the 'abuse of entrusted power for private gain'. The latest results underscore ongoing challenges within Italy's public sector. While the country had shown an upward trend in its anti-corruption efforts over the past decade, this recent setback suggests that more robust measures and political will are needed to address persistent issues and regain momentum in the fight against corruption.
6 Comments
Ongania
The report highlights valid areas for improvement, like the Beneficial Owners Register. Still, perception indices can be volatile, and a single year's data doesn't erase long-term efforts against organized crime.
Fuerza
It's undeniable that Italy faces challenges with lobbying and conflicts of interest. Yet, many citizens and institutions actively fight corruption daily, which this broad index doesn't fully capture.
Manolo Noriega
Just negative media spin. Don't trust these rankings.
Fuerza
Every nation has challenges; this feels like an unfair attack.
Manolo Noriega
This index is clearly biased. Ignore the sensationalism.
Comandante
These 'perception' indexes are so flawed. Italy is no worse than others.