Financial Crime World

Jordan’s Corruption Perceptions Index Ranks 60th Globally, with Slight Improvement

Transparency International’s Corruption Perceptions Index Reveals Jordan’s Performance

According to Transparency International’s (TI) Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI), Jordan has maintained its position for the second consecutive year, ranking 60th out of 180 countries. The Kingdom scored 49 points out of 100, a slight improvement from previous years.

Factors Contributing to Jordan’s Low Scores

  • Weak institutions
  • Lack of transparency in public finances
  • Restrictions on public freedoms

However, the report commended Jordan for its efforts to combat corruption, citing:

  • Amendments made to the Integrity and Anti-Corruption Commission Law
  • Proposed changes to the Audit Bureau Law and Illicit Gains Law

Recommendations to Improve Jordan’s Score

  • Strengthen regulatory bodies
  • Harmonize laws with international conventions
  • Ensure transparent contracting practices
  • Promote access to information
  • Protect whistleblowers and encourage reporting of corruption cases

Government Response and Criticism

Jordanian officials have expressed optimism about the country’s progress in combating corruption, citing:

  • Establishment of the Integrity and Anti-Corruption Commission
  • Efforts to increase transparency in public finances

However, critics argue that more needs to be done to address the root causes of corruption and ensure accountability.

Implications for Jordan’s International Reputation and Foreign Investment

The country’s score on the CPI has significant implications for its international reputation and attractiveness to foreign investment. At a time when Jordan is facing economic challenges and rising public discontent over government corruption and mismanagement, improving its score on the CPI is crucial for the Kingdom’s future development.

Ranking Among Arab Countries

According to Transparency International, Jordan ranked fifth among Arab countries, following:

  • UAE
  • Qatar
  • Oman
  • Saudi Arabia

Yemen received the lowest score on the index with a score of 15, while Somalia scored 12.