Corruption Perceptions Index 2020 - Executive Summary

UNDER EMBARGO UNTIL 06:01 CET, 28 JANUARY 2020 COUNTRIES TO WATCH Malawi With a score of 30, Malawi is a significant decliner on the CPI, dropping seven points since 2012. Notorious for the “cash-gate scandal” of 2013, 94 involving high levels of public sector corruption and misappropriation of funds, the country continues to grapple with corruption. Zambia With a score of 33, Zambia is a significant decliner on the CPI, dropping five points since 2013. Corruption is endemic in Zambia and affects people’s access to essential public services. Malawi has an opportunity to strengthen good governance and promote anti- corruption efforts to reverse the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the economy. In Zambia, commitment to procurement reforms will support greater transparency and accountability. A recent government audit revealed 95 public sector corruption of astronomical proportions, with an estimated US$1 billion allegedly stolen by the previous government. 96 A new government elected in June 2020 promises a fresh start, with several investigations into corruption already underway, and some key arrests 97 made in connection with a cement import scandal. In addition, the extradition of a high-profile Malawian pastor accused of money laundering in South Africa 98 may be another test of the country’s commitment to anti-corruption. According to our 2019 report, 99 nearly one in five Zambian citizens paid bribes 100 to receive services like health care or education. The mounting levels of corruption may be attributable to an inefficient national public procurement system, 101 operating against a backdrop of rising foreign debt and high levels of poverty. Stronger commitment to procurement reforms and open civic spaces will support greater transparency and accountability, 102 but the upcoming general election will ultimately determine whether corruption will be a priority in the coming years. Photo: MsTingak / CC BY-SA 3.0 Photo: Boris Mayer / Shutterstock.com CORRUPTION PERCEPTIONS INDEX 2020 21