Corruption Perceptions Index 2020 - Executive Summary

UNDER EMBARGO UNTIL 06:01 CET, 28 JANUARY 2020 The COVID-19 response exposed vulnerabilities of weak oversight and inadequate transparency. To ensure resources reach those most in need and are not subject to theft by the corrupt, anti-corruption authorities and oversight institutions must have sufficient funds, resources, and independence to perform their duties. The COVID-19 crisis exacerbated democratic decline, with some governments exploiting the pandemic to suspend parliaments, renounce public accountability mechanisms, and incite violence against dissidents. To defend civic space, civil society groups and the media must have the enabling conditions to hold governments accountable. Many governments have drastically relaxed procurement processes. These rushed and opaque procedures provide ample opportunity for corruption and the diversion of public resources. Contracting processes must remain open and transparent to combat wrongdoing, identify conflicts of interest and ensure fair pricing.. The publication of disaggregated data on spending and distribution of resources is particularly relevant in emergency situations, to ensure fair and equitable policy responses. Governments should also ensure people receive easy, accessible, timely and meaningful information by guaranteeing their right to access information. 1. STRENGTHEN OVERSIGHT INSTITUTIONS 3. DEFEND DEMOCRACY, PROMOTE CIVIC SPACE 2. ENSURE OPEN ND TRANSPARENT CONTRACTING 4. PUBLISH RELEVANT DATA, GUARANTEE ACCESS Recommendations To fight COVID-19 and curb corruption, it is essential for countries to: From bribery and embezzlement to overpricing and favourtism, corruption in health care takes many forms. 3 We risk losing even more, however, if we don’t learn from previous lessons in times of crisis. 4 Over the last year, despite COVID-19, people around the world gathered in force to join massive protests against corruption and for social justice and political change. Consistent with public opinion surveys that show most people are hopeful that they can make a difference in the face of corruption, 5 these protests made headlines and highlighted the power of collective action in speaking out. The emergency response to the COVID-19 pandemic revealed enormous cracks in health systems and democratic institutions, underscoring that those in power or who hold government purse strings often serve their own interests instead of those most vulnerable. As the global community transitions from crisis to recovery, anti- corruption efforts must keep pace to ensure a fair and just revival. 6 CORRUPTION PERCEPTIONS INDEX 2020 5