Maldives Slumps to New Low in Corruption Index
The Maldives has dropped to a dismal ranking of 124 out of 180 countries in the latest Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI), released by Transparency International on Wednesday. This is the third consecutive year that the island nation has scored below 50, with a paltry score of 31.
A Crisis of Democracy
According to the CPI, which scores and ranks countries based on their perceived level of public sector corruption, the Maldives continues to lag behind in its fight against graft. The index uses a scale of zero (highly corrupt) to 100 (very clean), with the Maldives’ score drawn from three international sources: World Bank CPIA, Global Insight Country Risk Ratings, and Varieties of Democracy Project.
The Consequences of Corruption
The continued failure of countries like the Maldives to curb corruption and ensure integrity is contributing to a crisis of democracy worldwide. Cross-analysis with global democracy data reveals that countries with higher rates of corruption also have weaker democratic institutions and political rights.
The 2018 CPI Score: A Stark Reminder
The 2018 CPI score for the Maldives is a stark reminder of the eroding democratic institutions and unchecked level of grand corruption in the country. Over the past five years, fundamental freedoms and rights in the Maldives have gradually deteriorated, paving the way for unchecked corruption and abuse of power.
A Call to Action
Transparency International has warned that if left unchecked, corruption can undermine democracy and destroy public trust in governments. The organization is calling on the government to take concrete steps to address corruption and strengthen democratic institutions.
Recommendations from Transparency International Maldives
In a statement, Transparency International Maldives recommended that the state:
- Strengthen institutions responsible for maintaining checks and balances over political power
- Close the implementation gap between anti-corruption legislation, practice, and enforcement
- Support civil society organizations that enhance political engagement and public oversight of government spending
- Support a free and independent media, and ensure the safety of journalists and their ability to work without intimidation or harassment
A Wake-Up Call for the Government
The Maldives’ poor performance in the CPI is a wake-up call for the government to take immediate action to address corruption and strengthen democratic institutions. As Transparency International Maldives said, “It’s time for the state to act on its commitments to fight corruption and ensure that democracy is protected.”