Widening Performance Gap in 2023 Global Corruption Index (GCI)
Geneva, Nov 08, 2023 – Global Risk Profile (GRP) releases the 2023 edition of the Global Corruption Index (GCI), providing a comprehensive assessment on the state of corruption and other white-collar crimes worldwide.
After ranking first place in 2019 and 2021, Finland retakes the lead in 2023. Last year’s best performer, Norway, comes in second place this year, with New Zealand coming in third. Europe asserts its dominance in the top 10, featuring Sweden (4th), Denmark (5th) and Estonia (6th).
While regional risk scores have seen minimal shifts between 2022 and 2023, Europe maintains its distinction with the lowest risk score (29.7), followed by Oceania and North America (40.1 and 43.8 respectively). South America (46.1) hovers close to the global average (45.9), while Asia lags behind (50.1) and Africa remains the region with the highest average risk score (57.9). Although the world average remained unchanged during this period, Europe, Oceania, South America and Asia experienced slight decreases in average risk scores, while Africa saw a slight increase.
These trends underscore the growing disparity in corruption and white-collar crime risks between low-risk countries and those with higher vulnerabilities. This contrast is further highlighted when comparing the top 20 and bottom 20 rankings. The countries with very low risk (top 20) saw their average risk score decrease from 14.3 to 13.7, predominantly comprised of European countries. On the other hand, high-risk countries (bottom 20) maintained an average risk score of 75.4, with Asia and Africa predominately populating this segment.
In addition to evaluating corruption, the Global Corruption Index unveils insights into other white-collar crimes and exposes the specific vulnerabilities of each country. Notably, Luxembourg and Liechtenstein, while performing well in the Corruption sub-index, respectively ranking 8th and 18th, display a medium risk score in the White Collar Crimes sub-index, respectively ranking 60th and 94th out of 196 countries. Similarly, the United Arab Emirates achieves a relatively good corruption rank (44th), but receives a high-risk score in white-collar crimes, ranking 144th.
On a global scale, the United States has made significant progress, climbing seven ranks from 31st in 2022 to 24th in 2023, reclaiming its 2018 ranking. This improvement can be attributed to a better risk score in the Corruption sub-index, placing them at 25th.
China’s performance has also improved, rising from 117th to 113th, its best rank yet in the GCI. China’s progress is predominantly due to a decent ranking in the White Collar Crime sub-index (91st), despite a lower ranking in the Corruption sub-index (126th). Conversely, Russia dropped two ranks, falling from 125th to 127th. Notably, Russia has one of the highest corruption risk scores, ranking 144th on the Corruption sub-index.
The top performers by region are Canada (North America), Uruguay (South America), Finland (Europe), Cabo Verde (Africa), Singapore (Asia) and New Zealand (Oceania).
Countries presenting the highest risks in the GCI include Yemen, South Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, North Korea and Syria coming in last, mirroring the 2022 rankings.
For detailed 2023 GCI results, interactive data and technical documentation, visit the dedicated website: risk-indexes.com/global-corruption-index
About the GCI
Since 2018, the Global Corruption Index (GCI) measures both public and private corruption (based on its perception and experience) as well as other white-collar crimes, such as money laundering and terrorism financing issues. Featuring up-to-date data, the GCI’s 2023 edition offers a risk score, rank and evaluation for as many as 196 countries and territories based on a set of 42 variables.
About GRP
Global Risk Profile (GRP) is a renowned Swiss company that specializes in Ethics & Compliance services. Established in 2009, GRP has consistently prioritized Due Diligence at the core of its operations. Serving a diverse clientele, our offerings span from comprehensive Due Diligence assessments and investigations to cutting-edge compliance software solutions, catering to both multinational corporations and small enterprises.
Media Contact
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Sonia THURNHERR, Head of Development Department
Tél : +41 (0) 22 794 39 11
Email : media@risk-indexes.com
