Equatorial Guinea: The Most Corrupt Country From CPLP.
Equatorial Guinea sadly stands out as the most corrupt country among the Portuguese-speaking African Countries (PALOP), occupying a dismal 172nd position in the corruption perception index. This scenario demands decisive action to address the deep roots of corruption and instigate positive change.
In contrast, Cape Verde is the second least corrupt in Africa and the best in the Community of Portuguese Speaking Countries (CPLP), reveals the organization’s annual Corruption Perceptions study “International Transparency".
Corruption in PALOP
Corruption is a global issue that permeates governments, societies and economies. In the PALOP, this problem persists, leading to the creation of the Project to Support the Consolidation of the Rule of Law in Portuguese-Speaking African Countries and Timor-Leste (PACED).
This initiative, born from the partnership between the European Union, the PALOP and Timor-Leste, aims to promote the affirmation and consolidation of the Rule of Law, prevent and combat corruption, money laundering, organized crime and, in particular, trafficking of narcotics.
Global Assessment
In sub-Saharan Africa, the Seychelles stands out as the best country, occupying the twentieth global position with 71 points. In contrast, Somalia ranks as the most corrupt country in the world.
Denmark, on the other hand, leads as the least corrupt. The global trend, according to Transparency International, points to an increase in corruption, highlighting the pressing need to strengthen justice systems.
“Corruption will continue to progress until justice systems can punish and keep governments in check.”
“Leaders must invest in anti-corruption bills and guarantee the independence of institutions that fight corruption.”
It can be read in Transparency International’s 2023 annual report.
The CPLP Assessment
Transparency International's annual study assesses corruption perceptions based on diverse data from reputable sources such as the World Bank, World Economic Forum and private risk and consultancy companies. Each country receives a score from 0 to 100, where 100 represents the least corrupt and 0 the most corrupt.
Equatorial Guinea: Facing Profound Challenges
Equatorial Guinea, unfortunately, tops the list as the most corrupt country among the PALOP, faces significant challenges, ranking in 172nd position. Decisive action is crucial to address the root causes of corruption and promote positive change.
Guinea-Bissau: The Challenge of Corruption
Guinea-Bissau, although it has improved one position compared to the previous year, still faces significant challenges in the fight against corruption, ranking 158th with a score of 22.
Mozambique: A Worrying Setback
Mozambique, on the contrary, experienced a setback, falling to 145th position with 25 points. This setback highlights the urgency of effective measures to combat corruption and promote transparency in the country.
Angola: Maintaining Stability, but…
Angola maintains a stable position in 121st place with 33 points. While stability is positive, it is vital that the country moves forward with initiatives that further improve its position and reduce levels of corruption.
Brazil: Challenges in an Emerging Nation
Brazil, as an economic power in the CPLP, faces persistent challenges, occupying 104th position. The country's diversity and complexity require continuous efforts to strengthen institutions and promote transparency.
São Tomé and Príncipe: An Average Positioning
São Tomé and Príncipe occupies 67th position with 45 points, presenting an intermediate position between the PALOP. The continued implementation of anti-corruption measures is vital to maintaining and improving this position.
Cape Verde: The Positive Highlight
Cape Verde stands out positively, rising four places to position 30, with 64 points. This notable progress reflects the country's efforts in the fight against corruption.
The Example to Follow
Cape Verde, in addition to being the second least corrupt country in Africa, obtained 64 points, an increase of four positions compared to the previous year. This success is attributed, in part, to the recent approval of a law that establishes an electronic platform for judicial operators.
This measure aims to reduce delays and pending processes, demonstrating Cape Verde's commitment to strengthening judicial institutions.
Within the scope of the Community of Portuguese Speaking Countries (CPLP), Cape Verde surpasses all other members, including Portugal, which now occupies 35th position. This achievement highlights Cape Verde's determination to be a regional leader in promoting transparency and fighting corruption.
Transparency International highlights the crucial role of independent judicial institutions in combating corruption. Cape Verde's recent focus on creating an electronic platform is a clear example of how investing in the independence of these institutions can result in significant improvements.
Conclusion
The PALOP face persistent challenges related to corruption, but there are valuable lessons to be learned from notable successes.
If, on the one hand, Equatorial Guinea is the example not to follow, Cape Verde, in particular, stands out as an example to be followed, demonstrating that the implementation of concrete measures, such as transparency laws and investment in judicial institutions, can result significant progress in the fight against corruption.
Continued commitment to transparency and ethical governance is essential for the sustainable progress of all CPLP countries. It is imperative that leaders invest in anti-corruption bills and guarantee the independence of institutions that combat corruption.
Transparency International's 2023 annual report is clear: corruption will continue to progress until justice systems can punish and keep governments in check.
What do you think about the state of corruption in the PALOP and the situation in Equatorial Guinea? We want to know your opinion, do not hesitate to comment and if you liked the article, share and give a “like/like”.
Picture: © 2024 Francisco Lopes-Santos
