Financial Crime World

Gambia Falls Short in Global Anti-Corruption Efforts

The Gambia’s Poor Ranking in Corruption Perceptions Index

The Gambia has maintained its position as one of the most corrupt countries in the world, according to the latest Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) released by Transparency International. The CPI ranks 180 countries and territories based on their perceived levels of public sector corruption.

Gambia’s Disappointing Score

With a score of 37 out of 100, The Gambia ranked 102nd globally, sharing the spot with Kazakhstan and Sri Lanka. This ranking is a reflection of the country’s lack of institutional and legal reforms to combat corruption.

Key Statistics

  • Score: 37 out of 100
  • Ranking: 102nd globally
  • Neighbors who outperformed: Ukraine, Kenya, Algeria, Angola, Niger, Togo, Egypt, Mali, Russia, Nigeria, North Korea, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Barriers to Progress

Despite making some progress in recent years, The Gambia’s anti-corruption efforts have been hampered by a lack of institutional and legal reforms. The National Assembly recently passed the Access to Information Bill, but many other important bills, including the Anti-Corruption Bill, remain stuck in limbo.

Key Bills Stuck in Limbo

  • Access to Information Bill: Passed by the National Assembly
  • Anti-Corruption Bill: Tabled four years ago by former Justice Minister Abubacarr Tambadou, but yet to be given priority by lawmakers.

Transparency International’s Response

Transparency International’s chairperson, Delia Ferreira Rubio, expressed disappointment at the lack of progress in the fight against corruption worldwide. “Corruption has made our world a more dangerous place,” she said. “As governments have collectively failed to make progress against it; they fueled the current rise in violence and conflict – and endanger people everywhere.”

Call to Action

The only way to reverse the trend is for states to do the hard work of rooting out corruption at all levels, according to Transparency International. “The only way out is for states to do the hard work, rooting out corruption at all levels to ensure governments work for all people, not just an elite few,” Rubio said.