Corruption Perceptions Index 2019 - Executive Summary

Tunisia With a score of 43, Tunisia remains at a standstill on the CPI despite advances in anti- corruption legislation over the past five years. Recent laws to protect whistleblowers and improve access to information, combined with stronger social accountability and space for civil society, are important steps, but they are not enough. Saudi Arabia With a score of 53, Saudi Arabia improved by four points since last year. However, its score does not reflect the myriad problems in the country, including a dismal human rights record and severe restrictions on journalists, political activists and other citizens. For anti-corruption laws to be effective, decrees and implementing orders from the executive branch are needed. In addition, financial and human resources are vital to strengthen the country’s anti-corruption commission and increase its independence. To date, few political leaders have been prosecuted for corruption, 43 and recovery of stolen assets is In 2017, the Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad Bin Salman carried out an ”anti-corruption” purge as part of his reform of the country. Despite government claims of recovering approximately US$106 billion of stolen assets, 46 there was no due process, transparent investigation or fair and free trial for suspects. 47 slow. 44 An independent judiciary is another major challenge. While the recent establishment of a judiciary council is encouraging, the council is not yet fully operational and still lacks total independence from the legislative branch. 45 This year, Saudi Arabia takes on the presidency of the G20. As it assumes this leadership role, the country must end its crackdown on civil liberties and strengthen further checks on the executive branch to foster transparency and accountability. COUNTRIES TO WATCH In Tunisia, the lack of enforcement of laws and regulations is a major challenge. Without proper implementation mechanisms and administrative decrees, laws will remain ineffective. The social and economic reforms that helped improve Saudi Arabia’s business environment and attract foreign investment came with a heavy human rights price tag. Photo: ColorMaker/Shutterstock.com Photo: Faisal Nasser/Reuters CORRUPTION PERCEPTIONS INDEX 2019 19